FishTankCan bettas live with kuhli loaches?
Yes, with care. Kuhli loaches are large and busy and may stress a betta. Calm, small tankmates suit bettas better.
With care
Verdict
76–82°F
Shared temperature
20 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 |
| Kuhli loach | 4 in | 75–86°F | 20 gal | 5 or more | peaceful |
If you want to try it
- Set the heater to about 79°F, in the middle of the range they share (76–82°F).
- Use a tank of at least 20 gallons, and bigger is calmer. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
- Keep kuhli loaches in a group of 5 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
- Kuhli loaches feed on the bottom, so drop in sinking pellets or wafers after the lights go out.
- 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.
Good tankmates instead
- For bettas: Amano shrimp, Corydoras (bronze or peppered), Ember tetra, Harlequin rasbora, Mystery snail, Neon tetra
- For kuhli loaches: Amano shrimp, Angelfish, Black skirt tetra, Bristlenose pleco, Cardinal tetra, Cherry barb
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
More tankmate questions: Can bettas live with guppies? · Can bettas live with neon tetras? · Can bettas live with corydoras? · Can bettas live with cherry shrimp? · All tankmate guides
Related: Betta care · Fish compatibility checker · Fish care sheets