Can neon tetras and male bettas live together?

Yes

Neon tetras and male bettas can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.

Neon tetra Betta (male)

Why

  • Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.

What each one needs

Neon tetraBetta (male)Both
Temperature70–81°F (21–27°C)76–82°F (24–28°C)76–81°F (24–27°C)
pH6.0–7.06.5–7.56.5–7.0
Minimum tank10 gal (38 L)5 gal (19 L)10 gal (38 L)
Keep at least61
Adult size1.5 in (3.8 cm)2.5 in (6.4 cm)

The smallest tank for both

A 10 gallons (38 L) tank holds 6 neon tetras and 1 betta (male) at about 68% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.

Other tank mates for neon tetras

Other tank mates for male bettas