I have a 29 gallons tank with 11 Cardinal tetras, 10 Rummy nose tetras, and 4 Otos. I was wondering if it would be OK to add a Betta to the tank or will my bio-load be too much?
Adding more fish?
- Thread starter carttman
- Start date
Rummynose tetras get to be about 2", cardinal tetras get to be 2" as well, as do otos. If we use the "inch per gallon" rule, you already have 50" of fish in 29 gallons of water (or you will when they're full grown). A betta will add around 3" to the tank, thus bringing it to a grand total of 53" in 29gal. I know the "inch per gallon" rule is poo-pooed by a lot of people, but I think it's a good general rule of thumb.
Since tetras, otos, and bettas are all relatively clean fish (as opposed to goldfish and oscars, for example) even an overstocked tank can be clean. You will just have to do more water changes and vacuum the gravel more often. You should watch your ammonia carefully, and do water changes as applies. As your tank is now, you may want to get rid of some of the tetras (most LFS will take them in exchange for plants, different fish, or store credit).
Since tetras, otos, and bettas are all relatively clean fish (as opposed to goldfish and oscars, for example) even an overstocked tank can be clean. You will just have to do more water changes and vacuum the gravel more often. You should watch your ammonia carefully, and do water changes as applies. As your tank is now, you may want to get rid of some of the tetras (most LFS will take them in exchange for plants, different fish, or store credit).
I would be inclined to lose a couple each of the tetras too to make room for the betta. Do your tetras still school? The rummys prob do. Anytime I had rummys and cardinal they tend to spread out (rummys the least). I have to imagine that 21 tetras spread out in a 29gal makes the tank look pretty full. If you had say 7-9 of each tetra, it would be more roomy for them. But sure, you could add the betta and keep an eye on ammonia etc...maybe do more frequent water changes.
All of my fish school together still. They have been together for about 7 months now. I have also decided to pass on the Betta. Thank you for your help!