Strange tank dimensions, does it have sorority potential?

[RobertsKitty]

I have a 46 gallon aquarium that is 20 inches wide, 30 inches tall and 17 inches deep. Basically it is a very tall aquarium, and I have never seen any other like it (I got it off craigslist).

I would LOVE to make it into a large betta sorority, but I'm concerned with its height rather than width that it would not be a good tank for the job.

Can I get some opinions on this idea? If it would work out, how many bettas could work in a 46 gallon aquarium?

Thanks

[Pataflafla]

It could technically work, but it wouldn't be ideal since they would be cramming for territory nearer to the surface.

You can fit 5 females max in a generic 10 gallon, but since your tank is taller, I'd go with a smaller number per gallon. Perhaps even just go with 5 females and other peaceful community fish that like lower level areas of the tank if you want them.

Remember to heavily plant the tank if you do go with a sorority.

[Myates]

Have to agree ^^ I would keep 5-6 females, and then add in some other peaceful fish, ones that are mid or bottom dwellers like some of the peaceful tetras and cories.

[Sowman]

Do female bettas only clam the territory at the top of the tank or the bottom as well? Just curious

[Pataflafla]

Prime territory will be near the top since they breath air. They'll claim top and middle, so it's best to not overcrowd since others will be pushed down to claim lower territories.

[Sowman]

got it, thanks.

[Myates]

Females don't claim territory the same as males.. they tend to claim the area right around them more then a specific spot. In the wild, the males have a steady territory they keep and females will swim freely all around.

[RobertsKitty]

Originally Posted by Myates

Females don't claim territory the same as males.. they tend to claim the area right around them more then a specific spot. In the wild, the males have a steady territory they keep and females will swim freely all around.

If this is true then why should I have so few in the tank?

[Pataflafla]

There will be more aggression when they go to breathe since they will be invading each other's space. So rather than have something like 10 girls going after each other, it would be better to only have 5 girls.

Less space claimed means less space invaded.

[RobertsKitty]

That makes sense. How many could comfortably fit in a regular 29 gallon?