Betta + Tank Mate Introduction

Hello, I am asking this for the future as I am nowhere near ready to care for another aquarium just yet, but I had a plan and a question.

I'm planning on eventually adding a betta and a small school of neon tetras to a 10g tank, but I understand that sometimes 'ideal' betta tank mates dont work out with certain bettas. I have a backup plan to move the tetras if problems start occurring.

My question is, once I do get that tank fully set up, should I introduce the betta to the tank first, the tetras, or does it matter? Should I wait a certain amount of time between introducing each group to the tank?

 

I just want to point out that Bettas and most Tetras water parameters are not compatible together. Neons require a low pH around 6.5 and Bettas need 7.0+ . Bettas require a warmer temperature as well in the 80s, whereas the lowest neons can tolerate is around 78. I also do not recommend housing any tankmates with bettas (besides inverts) unless the aquarium is 20gals or larger to prevent territorial aggression and stress to the betta himself.

 

Ah, alright then, I will rethink my plan. Thanks for the info, I'm very glad I asked quite a ways ahead of time!

 

I’m not sure I agree 100%. I have understood that bettas do well with under 7.0, and temps of 78-79 are fine for betta. If you want to introduce any tankmates with a betta I would introduce the other fish first, then the betta. Much ”betta” chances of the more territorial betta is introduced to an already established group of tank mates rather than the other way around.

 

Alright, I'll do some more research on compatibilities. Chances are though that at 10gal I'm most likely not going to be able to comfortably house both? In which case I'll have them in separate tanks and it wont be an issue. But all the same, very good to know! Thank you very much

 

My betta is a sweetheart! She has never killed or hurt other fish. Remember every betta is different and you will have to experiment!