Can cardinal tetras and male bettas live together?
Yes
Cardinal tetras and male bettas can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.
Why
- Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.
What each one needs
| Cardinal tetra | Betta (male) | Both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–84°F (23–29°C) | 76–82°F (24–28°C) | 76–82°F (24–28°C) |
| pH | 5.0–7.0 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7.0 |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal (76 L) | 5 gal (19 L) | 20 gal (76 L) |
| Keep at least | 6 | 1 | |
| Adult size | 2 in (5.1 cm) | 2.5 in (6.4 cm) |
The smallest tank for both
A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 6 cardinal tetras and 1 betta (male) at about 40% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.