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 Pet Central
Q&A
Q: I have two male
betta fish. I know to keep them in separate bowls, but I don’t want a
lonely fish. Is there another kind of fish the betta fish would like?
-- C.C., Atlanta, Ga.
A: Aquarist Dave
Taub, of Coral Springs, Fla., points out that lots of different fish do
better in community tanks but the betta is not on that list. For one thing,
few other kinds of fish can thrive in the confines of a bowl (without
an aeration system). And a larger fish would nibble at the betta’s delicate
fins.
Bettas, also called
Siamese fighting fish, are from the rice patties of Southeast Asia. Individuals
guard small territories, fending off all rivals. You’re correct that two
male bettas won’t get along. However, may hobbyists place several betta
bowls near one another. When the mood strikes a fish to defend its zone,
the colors intensify and the fins protract. Apparently, this doesn’t stress
the fish. In fact, it keeps them perky.
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