Can African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma Live Together?
African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
Behaviour & Temperament
African Arowana is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Betta Macrostoma is moderately assertive (6/10). This modest difference means Betta Macrostoma may occasionally assert dominance over African Arowana.
African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.
Worth noting: African Arowana is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of African Arowana (6.5–8) and Betta Macrostoma (4–6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–5 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Tank Setup
To house African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1500 litres with a minimum length of 250 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.
Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.
Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Floating. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice
African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma need?
A minimum of 1500 litres (tank length at least 250 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 25°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are African Arowana or Betta Macrostoma aggressive?
African Arowana is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Betta Macrostoma is moderately assertive (6/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do African Arowana and Betta Macrostoma need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. African Arowana prefers 6.5–8, while Betta Macrostoma needs 4–6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
How do I manage Betta Macrostoma's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Betta Macrostoma space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
Shared setup supplies
We may earn from qualifying purchases
Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 2, 2026
- Last updated
- May 2, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Related Comparisons
African Arowana & Black Ghost Knifefish
·
African Arowana & Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
·
African Arowana & Peter's Elephantnose Fish
·
African Arowana & Siamese Tiger Fish
·
African Arowana & African Knifefish
·
African Arowana & Antennae Stingray
·
Betta Macrostoma & Banded Gourami
·
Betta Macrostoma & Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish)
·
Betta Macrostoma & Betta Smaragdina
·
Betta Macrostoma & Dwarf Gourami
·
Betta Macrostoma & Kissing Gourami
·
Betta Macrostoma & Leopard Bushfish (Ctenopoma)
·