What fish or other tank mates are best for a betta in a 3-gallon tank?

Hi Tori, I have found that fancy guppies are pretty, fun, and small fish that would do well in a small tank. Mollies would be another good choice. A 3 gallon could probably support 3 or 4 of them well. Beta fish don't seem to care much about snails in My experience. Have fun!

The small size will limit the species of fish as well as the number. White Cloud Minnows or Guppies would do fine in a small tank. You could keep no more than 2 or 3 fish total. If you are looking for company for your Betta, the same species can be kept. Other options include Otocinclus (Otos), Corys, Platys or Harlequin Rasboras. Again, no more than one or two in addition to the Betta. Water changes for any tank are simple. Change no more than 30% total volume at a time. Use a water conditioner to remove harmful chemicals and make sure the water is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Rinse the filter in tank water, not tap water, to preserve beneficial bacteria. Vacuum the substrate every couple of weeks.

It is not a good idea to keep freshwater hermit crabs with male bettas as they tend to pinch the fins of the fish. Good tank mates would be White Cloud Mountain Minnows Clown Pleco Pygmy Corydora Ember Tetras Harlequin Rasboras

A snail would be fine but anything else and the Betta may try to bully or pick at it. Most fish ignore snails but watch closely that Norman does not take a lot of interest in the snail. If he does, you will need rehome the snail.

Ideally, a 5 gallon tank would be better for both of them, but as long as she is a "passive" fish, an ADF should be fine with her. You'll need to monitor for any aggression initially because female Bettas can be just as aggressive as the males.

It is very difficult to see the markings of these fish from the pictures. Many fish may be able to live with a Betta if there is a large enough tank. Here are some guidelines on how to pick tabkmates for a Betta. No nibblers – if a fish nibbles at a Betta fish they will get bit back! Bigger fish and colorful fish could be seen to be intimidating – you don’t want to intimidate a fighting fish! Think of the size of your aquarium – you should always have 5 gallons of personal water space for your betta fish Many bottom feeders* are fish that can live with bettas Remember the dietary requirements for both tank mates Add a few tank ornaments and live plants for any intimidated fish to hide (just incase) You can find some more info here. http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/category_home.cfm?acatid=158

A 2.5 gallon tank is fine for a Betta and 2 snails. If you have artificial plants, use ones made of silk instead of plastic which can harm delicate fins. You'll need a heater also. Bettas are tropical fish and do best between 78 F and 80 F.