Betta Pugnax tank mates
Betta pugnax
6 rated pairings from the Betta Pugnax care guide. Compatibility here means water, temperament, tank zone and adult size all line up — the note on each card says why. Betta Pugnax needs at least 10 gallons on its own; every companion adds to that.
Good matches
3 · Compatible with normal care — watch space and numbers.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
10 gal min · 1.5" adult · Peaceful
Peaceful algae eaters that occupy bottom zones, minimizing conflict with mid-water bettas
Emerald Dwarf Rasbora
Danio erythromicron
10 gal min · 1" adult · Peaceful
Small, fast-moving schooling fish that avoid betta aggression through speed and group dynamics
Kuhli Loach
Pangio kuhlii
20 gal min · 4" adult · Peaceful
Nocturnal bottom-dweller that avoids daytime interaction with territorial bettas
Use caution
3 · Works in the right setup; read the note before combining.Celestial Pearl Danio
Danio margaritatus
10 gal min · 1" adult · Peaceful
Tiny, peaceful fish suitable for larger tanks; monitor for aggression during breeding season
Red Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
5 gal min · 1.2" adult · Peaceful
May be viewed as food; only suitable in heavily planted tanks with adequate hiding spaces
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
10 gal min · 2" adult · Peaceful
Larger shrimp less likely to be predated; still requires dense vegetation and monitoring
Planning this tank?
Run the whole stock list through the calculator — it checks bioload and schooling numbers, not just pairings.