Can Betta Fish Live With Goldfish? (Truth Revealed at Last)

Last Updated: July 28, 2022 by Flora Gibbins

Can a betta fish and goldfish live together? Short answer, no!

There are many reasons why these two fish cannot be tank mates. First of all, a betta fish is a tropical fish, originating in the waters of Thailand, the betta needs waters of 78 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Goldfish, however, prefer cooler waters of around 74 degrees Fahrenheit.

Goldfish produce a lot of fish waste, leading to high levels of ammonia in the water which is toxic to betta fish. It dirties the water in the tank quickly, meaning that larger more frequent water changes need to be made. Large and frequent water changes stress betta fish (although they are better than leaving your fish in dirty water!). These are things to avoid if you also want to keep your betta in a dorm.

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The number one rule when you think about what fish can go with your betta fish is no fin nippers! Guess what… Goldfish can be bad fin nippers! That does not go well with the long delicate fins of a betta – that or the betta’s short temper!

Another difference is their diets. Betta fish are carnivores – living off small insect larvae in the wild. Goldfish, however, are omnivores meaning that they require both vegetation and protein. Betta fish-specific food is not recommended for goldfish.

So, I guess that is reason enough to suggest that you never partner a goldfish and a betta fish in the same tank.

Hope this has helped!