side by side

[bettaluv]

I was wondering what your thoughts are on having two male bettas side by side (separated tanks of course). Some people say its cruel, because the bettas feel threatened all their life, while others like it because they get to see the betta's fins flairing.

I'll be putting my next betta near this one, but I'll probably be separating the tanks with a board.

[Rachel - old]

I think it just depends on what you feel is best for your individual guys. Sometimes they will go crazy flaring at each other at first, but then will settle down over time and only flare every once in a while because they get used to each other. I have my guys in tanks next to each other, but have a sheet of paper separating them. I simply lift the sheet away when I want them to play and flare. It was just too stressful for one of my guys when they could see each other all the time. I think it is just instinctive for them to flare and they do make some incredible bubble nests after their flaring sessions.

[Megan]

My males all live next to each other and can all see each other. Same with my females. Almost all males will calm down within a few days of being able to see each other, and just have their occasional flaring matches.

I personally think that they are much happier being able to see each other than not. (except for that occasional crazy male you will get that will just not stop flaring... I think the solitary life is best for these rare guys)

[BettaBGood]

bettaluv,

All of my bettas live close to each other, in small "groups" of 2-4, all around our house. As bethie does, I place a sheet of paper or a manilla folder between them if they get stuck in "constant flare mode," for an occasional rest. They do settle down after a while, but still flare when the mood strikes. I even switch them around every now & then - (females, too).

It's their nature to flare, although not continuously, and I've heard that they can become "depressed" (for lack of better words) when in solitude.

[Tori84]

My bettas live side by side in a divided tank. While they do engage in flaring contests, I made sure that they also have some places to hide in their tank. I assume that they're reasonably happy because they both have good appetites, they both actively explore their tank, and they both build bubble nests. I've heard that bettas who are kept alone can get all mopey and they just lay around their tank.

Also, if you're looking for a tank, you can get a nice 2 1/2 gallon aquarium with a clear plastic divider at Wal-mart for around $20.00. Mine is black, but they have other colors too like red, green, blue, and purple.

[ana]

some of mine actually become depressed when their buddy is moved, like when im cleaning him, its not cruel. they become friends i think after a while, in a 'dont put me in the eame tank but i love to play with you' way