Betta And Guppies

[RWB]

Hi
Can anyone tell me if you should keep a male betta in the same tank with 10 or so male guppies.
My LFS says yes and they do have a betta in their tank with loads of guppies but I am sure I read that this was the wrong thing to do
Advise?suggestions please?
Thanks
Ron.

 

[Annastasia]

It's usually not a good idea, because the Betta will find the long, flowy tails of the Guppies prime targets. It depends on the Betta's temperment, but I really wouldn't risk it.

 

[liz2]

It's usually not a good idea, because the Betta will find the long, flowy tails of the Guppies prime targets. It depends on the Betta's temperment, but I really wouldn't risk it.

I did this years ago and the guppies were fine for days and then one day lots of them were minus half their tails. So I have never dared do it again.

 

[Karah's_Mommy]

Bettas with guppies is a definate no no. I've heard on here of guppies being killed or having their spines snapped. I personally tried it when I was new to bettas cause I heard they'd be fine in a community setting. That set up was ok for a few months. Then while sitting in front of the tank watching them one day I watched my "passive" betta that I "knew his personality" so well swim over and rip and huge chunk off my guppy's caudal fin, all the way up to his body. I removed him immediately and have never nor will I ever mix bettas with any other fish. It's just not worth the risk.