Betta Flaring

[jcmissionary]

I have a new Betta in my 20 gallon tank. His primary tankmates are a few swordtails and some tetras. On occasion, he will flare at the swordtails. This tends to happen if the swordtail cuts in front of the betta. Is this something I should be concerned about? I have thought about maybe putting Skye (the betta) into a 2-3 gallon betta tank, if it turns out that he's harassing the swordtails.

So, if anyone could help me out, I'd be grateful.

 

[OrionGirl]

Bettas are funny critters. Some are peaceful, and compatible with all othr fish. Some get cranky at new things--attacking a newly added snail, fish, or decoration fiercely for a day or two, then ignoring it completely. Some will attack--not just flaring, but actual butting, biting, and chasing--without end. Mine will flare at one fish he's in with (a female killie fish), but ignores everyone else completely.

Best advice--monitor the situation. If it's just flaring, it's not a problem. If the betta starts hunting the other fish down, or makes physical attacks, you may need to separate them. If it continues to just be flaring with maybe a short chase, I wouldn't worry much--the fish won't die from this low level of aggression.