Can bettas live with ghost shrimp?

Yes, with care. Some bettas hunt shrimp. Lots of plants help them hide.

By Andy · Updated November 6, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, with care. Some bettas hunt shrimp. Lots of plants help them hide.

With care

Verdict

76–82°F

Shared temperature

5 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Betta (male)	2.5 in	76–82°F	5 gal	Alone or as a pair	long fins
Ghost shrimp	1.5 in	65–82°F	5 gal	3 or more	invertebrate

Set the heater to about 79°F, in the middle of the range they share (76–82°F).
Use a tank of at least 5 gallons, and bigger is calmer. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Keep ghost shrimp in a group of 3 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Have a backup plan. Every betta has its own temper, so keep a spare tank or divider ready in case it attacks.
Add plenty of plants and cover so every fish can get out of sight.

For bettas: Amano shrimp, Chili rasbora, Corydoras (bronze or peppered), Ember tetra, Harlequin rasbora, Lambchop rasbora
For ghost shrimp: African dwarf frog, Amano shrimp, Black neon tetra, Black skirt tetra, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal tetra

Want to check a whole tank? Pick up to 8 fish in the fish compatibility checker, which opens with this pair already filled in.

Planning a whole tank? Your First Aquarium includes ready-made stocking plans and care cards for 15 beginner fish. Get the guide for $12