8 Gallon Aquarium Algae Tank Mates for Betta & ADF

[Skittlesttr75]

First, I know this is a small tank, but it's the only space that I have right now (sits on my desk), plus they say it is more difficult upkeep on a smaller tank, so I know if I can keep this one safe, then I would feel more comfortable with a larger tank when I have room for one. It is taller than it is wide (Top Fin Dazzle - 14"H, 12"W, 9"D - the last is actual glass space as I subtracted the back tank portion). I have been researching everywhere on what is best co-habitants. I would like a male Betta and an African Dwarf Frog (even though the recommendation is no less than 10 gallons), but I am stuck on the algae eater. I can't find that works with both the Betta and the ADF. I looked at lobster, crayfish, shrimp, and catfish (I don't want a snail). To me, and don't hate me, but I don't care if something happens to the shrimp, as the health of the Betta and ADF are more important to me. I think 3-5 shrimp would be good (the ADF can eat the babies), but then I think I am overcrowding the Betta and ADF. Also, the plants and decorations are artificial, so no live plants either. Please let me know your thoughts.

 

[Ouse]

Hi, welcome to Fishlore.

Using “algae-eaters” as an easy fix for algae will only create more algae. Shrimp produce very little nitrogenous compounds, so they might eat more algae than they create, but they might also become betta/frog food before they can have an effect.

Algae-eaters aren’t essential. Algae will always occur in new setups, but will go away on it’s own over time. Live plants are the best form of algae-control because they outcompete algae for nutrients.

 

[FernAndJoop]

Welcome to fishlore! I agree with Ouse. I've never understood why everyone feels the need to get algae eaters, because you're pretty much fine without them. I guess you could try a snail, but adding another fish to a tank that size would increase the bioload so much that you would probably end up with more problems.

Especially since you're trying to put a betta and an ADF in that 8 gallon, I really would advise against any more fish. From what I've heard, both of those tend to do better by themselves, and that's with the ADF in a 10 gallon. And both of those prefer shallower water, so they'll already be competing for floor space.

 

[Ouse]

And both of those prefer shallower water, so they'll already be competing for floor space.

That’s an important point! ADFs struggle to reach the surface in deep tanks. If the water column is more than a foot deep, they’ll struggle with breathing.

 

[Skittlesttr75]

Thank you for the alage eater opinions! On all of the online research I've read so far, they say that an ADF is a good tank mate for a Betta. I might even end up getting a small school of 6 danios or something. I guess I was mainly looking for something that would help keep the gravel clean. Maybe saying Algae eaters is a misnomer then. Sorry, I'm such a newbie. I have the tank setup (7 days of bacteria starter) and all levels where they're supposed to be (using the "Tetra Easy Strips) and temp at a steady 78. I'm just excited to get something in there!

That’s an important point! ADFs struggle to reach the surface in deep tanks. If the water column is more than a foot deep, they’ll struggle with breathing.

I didn't know that, so I'm so glad you mentioned that! I just measured and the water column is 13". I guess that's just meant to be when I was worrying about the tank at 8 gallons less than recommended, but I just really love frogs! But I definitely don't want them to struggle to breathe or affect their health.

 

[Ouse]

Newer hobbyists won’t be expected to know everything right off the bat.

Be careful with Tetra Easy Strips; they degrade as soon as the box is opened, so you’ll get mostly inaccurate, misleading results. Rather use API Master test kit.

Eight gallons is too small for danios (and most other fish).

 

[Skittlesttr75]

See, that's where I get confused because there are so many answers out there to the same question. Most say a small shoal of 5-6 danios, guppies, or tetras (like neon) would all do fine in this size.

 

[Ouse]

See, that's where I get confused because there are so many answers out there to the same question. Most say a small shoal of 5-6 danios, guppies, or tetras (like neon) would all do fine in this size.

This site is my go-to place for when I find conflicting info. Aquarium stocking calculators, such as Aqadvisor, should be avoided, for example.

 

[FernAndJoop]

I guess I was mainly looking for something that would help keep the gravel clean.

Honestly to keep the gravel clean my best recommendation is just to vacuum it once every week or two! It's a little tricky at first but once you get the hang of it, it's like second nature and does wonders for keeping the tank clean. I like to scrape the walls before doing this if there's a lot of algae there too, but a little algae is usually a good sign of an established tank.

 

[Skittlesttr75]

Honestly to keep the gravel clean my best recommendation is just to vacuum it once every week or two! It's a little tricky at first but once you get the hang of it, it's like second nature and does wonders for keeping the tank clean. I like to scrape the walls before doing this if there's a lot of algae there too, but a little algae is usually a good sign of an established tank.

Thank you! I did buy a vacuum and multiple cleaning tool.

 

[Skittlesttr75]

I decided on one Betta. Lenny is a Platinum White (I have the blue LED light on so the decorations will fluoresce). I brought him home yesterday and his life went from a cup to my tank. He acclimated very well and is VERY active. He likes to rest in the "octopus cave" and I have a Betta log coming this week so he can chill out on top. Thanks for all of your support!