I dont think i should do this...need help.

[BettaSCHmacK]

would it be wise to put a paradise fish in with a betta??? i know it sounds stupid but i read on a different site that they are compatible with each other since they are from the same family of fish.

[MollyJean]

No, never put them together. For a lot of reasons.

Your betta will go after other fish with bright colors, that's why most people keep dull colored fish with short fins with their betta. But even a dull colored Paradise fish would be a problem. They grow 2 to 3 times the size of a betta and betta and Paradise fish are both predators. With the paradise fish being larger, your betta is lunch.

They're from the same family, yes, and share the prefrence for a solitary life. If you want to get a Paradise fish, keep it alone or with bottom feeder of your choice, but never another betta. They'll fight, the same if you had two bettas in a tank together.

[kelly528]

Yeah I second that. While they share the same environmental preferences (actually Paradise fish prefer cooler water) they will confuse each other for males of the same species.

And then there are oinheads out there who think that since Bettas and Paradise Fish can breathe air they will survive together in a bowl. Geesh, I wouldn't put it past some people!!!

[dramaqueen]

They think that because they're in the same family that they'll get along.

[MollyJean]

Bettas don't get along with other bettas.. Of course they won't get along with the rest of their extended family.

[BettaSCHmacK]

wheeew! thank you very much for the info. i am NOT gonna do that. i still might look on getting a paradise fish. they're kinda interesting. gotta wait till i get the money for another tank. WOW this fish thing is very expensive.

[keshinvk]

hi im gonna have to agree with everyone else sorry

[MollyJean]

Just remember that Paradise fish can get up to 6 inches long, you'll need a big tank for him/her, and lots of plants and hiding spots. Like the Bettas, you want to get silk plants; most Paradise fish have long fins, and being so large, a big cave or terracotta pot is a good idea for them to hide in. I wouldn't do anything less then 10 gallons.

But they are interesting, and come in some amazing colors. And if you spend enough time with them, you'll notice a lot of personality.

[ChristinaRoss]

definately a great fish, but better to do another tank. your on the right track, at least your doing your research first.

[BettaSCHmacK]

yes, research, research, research. i dont want a massacre to happen. =/