In this blog we will examine whether it is possible for betta and ember fish to coexist in the same environment. We will also look at the biology of each species and how to keep both species in a healthy environment.
Betta Fish
Bettas have a reputation for being aggressive, which makes them tough to get along with. They are solitary fish that will try to drive away most other fish. As a result, male betta fish are frequently advised to be kept alone. When introducing another species to new tank mates like ember tetras, it’s critical to keep a close eye on them.
Betta fish are Anabantids, which means they can breathe the air above the water through their mouths as well as obtaining oxygen from the water. You’ll want at least a 5-gallon tank, but many people have great success keeping a betta in beautifully planted 10-gallons tanks. Bettas need a temperature between 75 and 80 degrees.
Ember Tetras
Ember Tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae) are most common in the Araguaia River basin in Central Brazil, though they have also been seen in regions around this hotspot. The typical lifespan of an Ember Tetra is between 2 and 4 years. They prefer backwater rivers with low currents and a high amount of vegetation.
In the wild, this fish eats a mixture of plants and very small invertebrates. They are peaceful and can be compatible with a wide variety of tank mates. The appearance of Ember Tetras is the primary reason for their popularity among aquarists. These fish are highly attractive, and their vibrant colours make them fascinating.
Is it possible to keep betta and ember fish together in the same tank?
Betta fish are the most commonly abused fish by both hobbyists and fish retailers. Betta fish get along well so far with Ember Tetras. Both fish species demand similar water conditions, as well as a similar tank setup, and eat the same meals. A Betta and Ember Tetra tank is a fantastic mix.
Betta fish are commonly kept in an aquarium by themselves, and it’s common knowledge male betta can’t be kept together. But can you keep betta with ember tetras? You can if the aquarium is at least 10 gallons in size and longer than it is tall. This depends on the betta having a laid back personality. Ember Tetras are known for fin nipping, however, so it’s not guaranteed to work out.
Are Bettas and Ember Tetras receptive to the same kind of water?
It’s not difficult to keep the right water parameters for an Ember Tetra. One of the most significant advantages of keeping these fish is this. In this aspect, they’re really low-maintenance:
- Water temperature ranges from 73°F to 84°F.
- pH levels: a range of 5-7 is suggested, however we prefer to maintain them closer to 6.5.
- Hardness of water: 5-17 dGH
It’s always a good idea to purchase an aquarium test kit and check the levels on a regular basis. A safe frequency is once or twice a week at the very least. The most experienced aquarists prefer to be cautious and test their tanks on a regular basis. This will ensure that any fluke shifts do not hurt your fish.
Betta fish thrive in water with a PH of 6.8-7.5 and a temperature of 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit. The Ember Tetra and Betta prefer water temperatures that are fairly similar. When it comes to PH, there is less of a match, although both will comfortably live in a PH range of 6.8-7.
Another thing to keep in mind is that most fish can live outside of their ideal water parameters if you give them steady water conditions and properly acclimate them when they are first introduced to the aquarium.
For one betta fish and a school of six Ember tetras, you need a tank of at least 15 gallons. For community tanks that include both these species, a 10-gallon tank is really too small. Bettas are surface feeders and labyrinth breathers, so they need to get to the surface to eat and take gulps of air. Tetras need plenty of swimming space, and they tend to inhabit the middle area of the water column.
Is it possible for Bettas and Ember Tetras to share food?
Ember tetras and bettas have different nutritional requirements and should be fed separately. Bettas are carnivores, which means they eat exclusively meat. Ember Tetras are omnivore, which means they can consume a lot of the same things as bettas, although they should eat less meat and more plant food.
Ember Tetras eat both plant and animal materials, making them omnivores. Vegetables, shrimp pellets, blood worms, and other frozen meaty things make up a typical Ember Tetra diet. Ember Tetras enjoy tropical flakes as a food source.
Bettas are carnivores, on the other hand. Only meat-based foods, not vegetables or other plants, should be given to them. They should be fed predominantly mysis shrimp, blood worms, occasional daphnia, and betta-specific food.
What Is The Best Way To Introduce Tetras To A Betta Tank?
There are a few things to consider if you want to add a new kind of fish to your display tank. Always keep the fish in quarantine for at least two weeks before introducing them to the main tank. During that time, keep an eye on the fish for signs of disease. You can return the fish to your main tank once they have healed and appear to be in good health.
Tetras, like many other small fish species, are readily stressed, especially after being transported and introduced to a new environment. Stress can weaken a fish’s immune system, making them vulnerable to diseases like Ich, velvet, fin rot, and other bacterial infections that affect freshwater fish.
Rather than using fully conditioned water, use water from your main aquarium to your quarantine tank to assist acclimate the fish. If you’re starting from scratch, we recommend putting the Ember tetras in first. You can add the betta fish once the tetras have adjusted into their new home and you’re sure the tank is fully cycled.
When you add a betta to a tank with Ember tetras, you can avoid them from turning hostile towards newcomers. Because bettas are very territorial and prefer to map out their area rapidly, this method frequently works better than introducing additional fish to an existing betta tank.
When purchasing a betta, look for mature individuals that are close to adult size. Also, make sure there are lots of tunnels, floating logs, and other acceptable hiding spots for the betta to claim as his own. Tetras aren’t likely to bother with caves or similar structures, so your betta won’t feel frightened.
If Your Betta Is Chasing Tetras, What Should You Do?
Bettas may chase tetras around the tank so it can be hard to find a solution. If your betta is chasing or attacking your tetras, then you’ll need to remove him or the tetras. There are two things you can do in this situation – buy a tank divider or move them both to another tank.
It’s crucial to remember that every betta fish is unique. While the information on this page is generally beneficial, depending on your betta’s disposition, it may be hard to house any fish with him. If you’ve never previously housed a fish with your betta, you should have a backup tank available in case of problems.
Even though your betta is kind, he may try to devour a little tetra, so make sure they are both adults and in good health. You can tell whether a tetra is unwell by how it behaves; if it appears solitary, sluggish, or shows evident indications of disease, don’t buy it.
If you intend to keep tetras in your tank, you’ll need at least 20 gallons. Make sure your tank has enough breadth as well. Even though 20 gallons is the very minimum, you should strive for more for a variety of reasons, including keeping the water more stable, lowering bioload, and keeping fish happy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Betta Fish and Ember Tetras
Can I keep ember tetras alongside bettas?
If you want to construct a bright and colourful communal tank, ember tetras can make wonderful betta tank mates. As you can imagine, a small shoal of Ember tetras would look very stunning when paired with a bright blue or red betta fish!
How many Ember Tetras can you keep in a 5 gallon tank with a betta?
They love to be in larger groups, but I wouldn’t put more than 6-7 in a 5 gallon tank. If you choose this path, you’ll want to keep a closer eye on your water quality so it doesn’t get out of hand.
Do ember tetras bite on betta fins?
First and foremost, assess if the tank is large enough. Overcrowding is a major cause of fin nipping, particularly in schooling fish. Ember tetras require a lot of area to move about, and if your tank is too small, they may start nipping.
Why do bettas pursue ember tetras?
The betta may pursue the tetras and upset everyone out. The tetras may pinch the betta’s fins. As usual, keep a close eye on the situation and prepare a backup plan for separating the fish. You should also purchase a water testing kit.
Ember Tetras are fin nippers?
While a renegade ember tetra has nipped at fins on a few occasions, it is extremely unusual. These fish like to be alone and will normally avoid contact with larger, more energetic fish. If you’re suffering fin nibbling, it might be because your school is too tiny.
Will the ember tetra jump?
All fish are capable of jumping. Your best bet would be a midwater or bottom dwelling tetra. I have Ember tetras in a ten without a top, and none of them have jumped over the wall. I have all of my tanks with open tops, and no fish have leapt out yet.
How can you tell if an ember tetra is male or female?
We just glance at the form and colour of the fish to tell the difference between male and female Ember Tetra. Females are often rounder than males. This is because their abdomen expands while they carry eggs. Males often exhibit brighter and more vivid colours than females.
References
Ember Tetra 101: Care, Size, Breeding, Lifespan, & More
Can Betta Fish Live With Ember Tetras?
Can Betta & Ember Tetras Live in the Same Tank?
Ember Tetra And Betta: Compatible Tankmates
Can Bettas Live With Tetras? – 5 Best Tetras
