As a young teen I had a betta in a 29gal community / newbie tank. Despite fin loss from poor choices of tankmates, he survived for a few years. There is now reason to limit their tank size, just be cautious of companions. In my tank, I believe the black tetras did the most damage to him.
A 10 gallon would be a palace for a betta. I have mine in a 5 gallon with some neons. He chases them for maybe a couple of inches and then gives it up.
Thanks for the tip on careful choice of companions. I think that the only thing I would consider is a couple small bottom feeders such as panda cories. (only grow to about 1.5-2 inches) I would be worried that something else might be tempted to nip his fins.
Thanks!
Oh, I just read the neon tetra thing, I have some neons in my 29 gallon. I'm trying to keep the bio-load pretty low since I also have a 29 gallon. I just want a nice peaceful tank. I have a school of neons and a school of rummy nose tetra in my 29 and they often swim around like crazy, so I have plenty of activity there! Thanks!
