Can Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 110 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Betta Imbellis

Betta imbellis

False Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus macrocephalus

🐠Family Group
Betta Imbellis
Anabantoids
False Glass Catfish
Catfish
Temperament
Betta Imbellis
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
False Glass Catfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Betta Imbellis
24–28°C
False Glass Catfish
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Betta Imbellis
5.5–7
False Glass Catfish
5–7
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Betta Imbellis
1–10
False Glass Catfish
1–8
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Betta Imbellis
Freshwater Only
False Glass Catfish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Betta Imbellis
Low
False Glass Catfish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Betta Imbellis
38 L
False Glass Catfish
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Betta Imbellis
TopMiddle
False Glass Catfish
Middle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Betta Imbellis
Shrimp EaterFry PredatorJumper (Lid Required)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
False Glass Catfish
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry PredatorShrimp Eater
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish?

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.

Betta Imbellis
False Glass Catfish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Betta Imbellis is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while False Glass Catfish is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Betta Imbellis may occasionally assert dominance over False Glass Catfish.

Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Worth noting: Betta Imbellis 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 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 5.5 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 1–8 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 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: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Why This Pairing Works in Practice

Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish work best when the tank gives each fish enough room to use its preferred level of the aquarium and enough cover to avoid constant visual contact. The score matters, but the real-world success usually comes from matching their pace, keeping water stable, and resisting the urge to crowd the tank just because the pair looks safe on paper.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish.

Show 10 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish live together?

Yes. Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Betta Imbellis or False Glass Catfish aggressive?

Betta Imbellis is generally mild-mannered (3/10) and False Glass Catfish is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Betta Imbellis and False Glass Catfish need?

Both species overlap in the 5.5–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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