Can mollies and male bettas live together?

With care

Mollies and male bettas can share a tank, but there is something to watch.

Molly Betta (male)

Why

  • Their pH ranges only meet at 7.5, which leaves no margin.

What each one needs

MollyBetta (male)Both
Temperature72–82°F (22–28°C)76–82°F (24–28°C)76–82°F (24–28°C)
pH7.5–8.56.5–7.57.5–7.5
Minimum tank20 gal (76 L)5 gal (19 L)20 gal (76 L)
Keep at least31
Adult size4 in (10.2 cm)2.5 in (6.4 cm)

The smallest tank for both

A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 3 mollies and 1 betta (male) at about 55% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.

Other tank mates for mollies

Other tank mates for male bettas