Best Tank Mates for Angelfish, Betta Fish, and Discus

When setting up a community aquarium, choosing the right tank mates is essential for ensuring a peaceful and harmonious environment. Angelfish, Betta fish, and Discus are popular choices among aquarists, but each species has unique temperament and space requirements. In this guide, we’ll explore the best tank mates for each of these beautiful fish.

Best Tank Mates for Angelfish

Angelfish are semi-aggressive, especially during breeding, but they can coexist with a variety of species in a well-maintained aquarium. Ideal tank mates include:

• Corydoras Catfish – Peaceful bottom dwellers that won’t compete for space.

• Rummy Nose Tetras – Fast and active, making them less likely to be bullied.

• Bolivian Rams – Gentle cichlids that share similar water conditions.

• Dwarf Gouramis – Generally peaceful and colourful additions.

• Bristlenose Plecos – Excellent algae eaters that keep the tank clean.

Tank Mate Tips: Avoid fin-nipping fish like Tiger Barbs and aggressive cichlids, which can stress out angelfish.

Best Tank Mates for Betta Fish

Betta fish (Siamese fighting fish) are known for their aggressive tendencies, particularly towards other bettas and fish with flowing fins. However, they can still coexist with certain non-threatening species:

• Neon Tetras – Small, peaceful, and fast-moving enough to avoid betta aggression.

• Kuhli Loaches – Bottom dwellers that keep to themselves.

• Corydoras Catfish – Social and non-aggressive, making them ideal tank companions.

• Harlequin Rasboras – Calm and schooling fish that won’t provoke a betta.

• Mystery Snails – A great option for adding variety without aggression concerns.

Tank Mate Tips: Avoid fin-nippers like Barbs and Guppies, as well as other male bettas, which will fight each other.

Best Tank Mates for Discus Fish

Discus fish are known for their peaceful nature but require stable water conditions. They thrive in a community tank with gentle and slow-moving fish that enjoy similar warm temperatures:

• Cardinal Tetras – Beautiful and peaceful, they complement discus well.

• Rummy Nose Tetras – Active schooling fish that help create a lively environment.

• German Blue Rams – Compatible cichlids that add color and interest.

• Sterbai Corydoras – Hardy bottom dwellers that keep the substrate clean.

• Dwarf Gouramis – Peaceful and slow-moving, they make good discus companions.

Tank Mate Tips: Avoid overly aggressive or fin-nipping species that could stress discus, such as larger cichlids or boisterous barbs.

General tips when selecting and adding these fish

When selecting tank mates for Angelfish, Betta fish, and Discus, it’s crucial to consider factors like temperament, tank size, and water parameters. By choosing compatible species, you can create a stunning and peaceful community aquarium where all fish thrive. Always introduce new fish gradually and monitor their interactions to ensure a stress-free environment.

For more expert tips on fish keeping, check out our other guides at Perfect Aquatics!