There are many different types of algae eaters that can be added to a Betta tank. Some of the best algae eaters for a betta tank include nerite snails, ottocinclus, Siamese algae eaters, plecos, and shrimp.
On this page, you’ll find a complete list of some of the most popular algae eaters for Bettas. So if you’re looking for ways to keep your betta tank clean and free of algae, read on!
Best Algae Eaters for a Betta Tank
Nerite Snails
Nerite Snails (Buy Online) are one of the best algae eaters for a betta tank. These little guys are great at grazing on algae, and they won’t reproduce in freshwater so you don’t have to worry about them taking over your tank. They’re also small enough that they won’t add much additional bioload to a small Betta tank. Plus, they’re really good at eating algae from glass, plants, and decorations.
Pom Pom Crabs
The Pom Pom Crab (Buy Online) is one of the best algae eaters for a Betta Tank. These little crabs are unique in that they have claws that are reminiscent of pom-poms or boxing gloves that they use to filter detritus and algae from their surroundings.
Pom Pom Crabs do best in planted tanks where there is plenty of algae to eat and places to hide, as they are very shy creatures. And these little crabs are a great addition to any Betta Tank and will help keep it clean and free of algae.
Pom Pom Crab adults will not exceed 1.75 inches and they are very peaceful, and they shouldn’t be kept with aggressive fish or tankmates that are significantly larger than them.
Otocinclus Catfish (Otocinclus vestitus)
Otocinclus Catfish (Buy Online), also known as Otos, are some of the best algae eaters for a Betta tank since they are peaceful fish that only grow to be about 4 inches long. Otos originate from South America, they are Herbivores and their diet consists mostly of algae. They will help keep your tank clean by eating algae off of vegetation, decorations, and glass.
Otos are a great addition to any nano tank as they do not require a lot of space. However, they prefer pristine water conditions with low nitrates that fall within a range of 75-80° F, KH 6-10, and pH 6.7-7.6.
Warning: Otocinclus is an expert-level fish since they have a high mortality rate in captivity and should only be kept by experienced aquarium keepers.
Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus siamensis)
Siamese Algae Eaters (Buy Online) are one of the best algae eaters for a large betta tank. They are peaceful, easy to care for and do a great job of eating algae off of live plant leaves. Siamese Algae Eaters originate from India, Indonesia, and Thailand, and they prefer water conditions that are 75-79 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH of 6.5-7.0. Siamese Algae Eaters can grow up to 6 inches in length, and they should be kept in a minimum tank size of 30 gallons. If you are looking for an algae eater that is easy to care for and does a great job of keeping your tank clean, Siamese Algae Eaters are one of the most effective algae eaters that you can get for a large Betta sorority tank.
Rabbit Snails
Rabbit Snails (Buy Online) are freshwater snails that have a beautiful spiral shells and are great tank cleaners. Rabbit Snails eat algae and detritus, making them a valuable addition to any Betta tank. In addition, Rabbit Snails are peaceful and tolerant of a wide range of water conditions, which makes them a great choice for beginner fish keepers.
Mystery Snails (Pomacea Bridgesii)
Mystery Snails (Buy Online) are one of the best algae eaters for a betta tank. They eat lots of algae and they are also relatively low maintenance, making them a great choice for a medium-sized betta tank. Plus, Mystery snails come in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that matches your Betta. If you’re looking for an algae eater that is low maintenance and easy to care for, mystery snails are a great option.
Just be aware that Mystery snails are prolific breeders, so you may end up with more snails than you want, but they are still a great addition to any Betta tank.
Amano Shrimp
Amano Shrimp (Buy Online) are one of the best algae eaters for a Betta tank and they also make great additions to community tanks. They are peaceful shrimp and they will do a great job of keeping the tank clean by eating algae off plants and decorations. Plus, Amano shrimp are a good choice for beginners because they are hardy and relatively easy to raise. However, smaller Amano shrimp might end up becoming a quick snack for a hungry Betta. That’s why it’s a good idea to only keep Amano shrimp with a Betta in larger tanks with plenty of plants and places to hide.
Neocaridina Shrimp
Neocaridina Shrimp (Buy Online) are some of the best algae eaters for a betta tank. They come in a wide range of colors, so they can easily accent the beauty of your betta fish. Neocaridina shrimp are also voracious algae eaters, so they’ll quickly chow down on any unwanted growth in your tank. The only downside is that these shrimp are small, so there’s a chance that your betta might see them as a tasty snack. But if you’re looking for an effective and eye-catching way to control algae growth in your tank, Neocaridina shrimp are a great option.
Malaysian Trumpet Snails
Malaysian Trumpet Snails (Buy Online) are an excellent addition to a clean-up crew since they will eat algae and burrow into gravel to eat detritus. They are also prolific breeders, so they will quickly populate a tank. The only downside of Malaysian Trumpet Snails is that they can be hard to control once they take up residence in a fish tank. However, Malaysian Trumpet Snails are still a good algae eater for a Betta tank since they not only eat algae but will also keep the gravel in your tank free of debris.
American Flagfish (Jordanella floridae)
American Flagfish (Buy Online) are one of the best algae eaters for a betta tank. They are easy to care for, semi-aggressive, and have eye-catching colors. American Flagfish are omnivores, so they will eat a wide range of algae varieties including hair algae. They prefer water temperatures of 66-72° F but can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. American Flagfish are also compatible with most other fish, making them a good choice for community tanks. Plus, they reach up to 2½” in length, which means that they only require a minimum tank size of 10 gallons.
Hillstream Loach
The Hillstream Loach (Buy Online) is unique in that it has a suction cup-like mouth and body that allows it to cling to rocks and other surfaces and it loves to graze on algae. Hillstream loaches also have a high tolerance for varying water conditions, making them ideal for betta tanks.
Red Cherry Shrimp
Cherry Shrimp (Buy Online) are one of the best options for algae eaters in a betta tank. Cherry shrimp are voracious algae eaters and will help keep your plants clean. They are also small, so they won’t take up too much space in your tank. The only downside is that they might be eaten by a betta. However, if you have a large tank, the risk of your shrimp being eaten is much lower. Overall, Cherry shrimp are a great option for anyone looking for an algae eater for a 5+ gallon betta tank.
Gold Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilos aymonieri)
Gold Algae Eaters (Buy Online) are easy to care for and can help keep your tank clean by eating algae off of plants, rocks, glass, and driftwood.
Gold Algae Eaters are native to Thailand and they do best in water conditions that are between 74-79 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, they can grow up to one foot in length and should be kept in a minimum tank size of 30 gallons.
Gold Algae Eaters are also mildly aggressive toward slow-moving betta fish, so if you plan to add a Gold Algae Eater to your tank, be sure to provide plenty of places for it to hide and establish its own territory.
Chinese Algae Eater (Gyrinocheilos aymonieri)
Chinese Algae Eaters (Buy Online) are a popular algae eater since they are relatively easy to care for and do a good job of eating algae. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before adding one to your tank. Chinese Algae Eaters can grow to be quite large, so make sure you have a tank that is at least 30 gallons. They can also be aggressive, so it is best to keep an eye on them in your as they start to mature since they might harass the other fish in your tank.
Betta Algae Control
API ALGAEFIX Algae Control 16-Ounce Bottle
API ALGAEFIX (Buy Online) is a popular algae control product that is safe to use with bettas. It controls multiple types of algae, including “green water” algae, string, or hair algae, and will not harm fish or plants. To use API ALGAEFIX, simply add the recommended amount to your aquarium per the instructions on the bottle and this fast-acting product will quickly begin to control algae growth in your aquarium.
Betta Algae Remover
HOTOOLME Aquarium Algae Scraper, 25.6″ Stainless Steel Algae Scraper
The HOTOOLME Aquarium Algae Scraper (Buy Online) is a great tool for keeping your fish tank clean. The extendable handle and extra blades make it easy to get to all of those hard-to-reach places, and the stainless steel construction provides superior durability. This scraper is also great for removing algae from betta tanks. The long handle and sharp blades make quick work of even the toughest algae growth, and the compact design means you can easily store it when not in use. Whether you’re a professional aquarist or a hobbyist, the HOTOOLME Aquarium Algae Scraper is a great addition to any fish keepers toolkit.
Is Algae Bad for Betta
Algae is not really bad for betta fish, but it can be unsightly. However, cyanobacteria can be toxic. If you see any signs of cyanobacteria in your tank, such as slimy patches or blue-green algae, take immediate action to remove it since Cyanobacteria can produce toxins that are harmful to fish and other aquatic creatures.
Will Betta Fish Eat Algae
Betta fish do not typically eat algae. While they may nibble on some algae if it is present in their tank, they prefer meaty foods. This is because Bettas are carnivorous and have a natural diet that consists mainly of insects, larvae, and other small aquatic creatures.
Related: How Often Do You Feed a Betta Fish
Betta Compatible Algae Eaters
There are many different algae eaters available on the market that are compatible with Bettas. Some of the most popular choices include shrimp, snails, and fish. Each species has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your tank. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common algae eaters and help you decide which is best for your Betta tank.
Can Betta Fish Live with Snails
Can Betta Fish Live with Nerite Snails
Betta fish can live with nerite snails. The two make a great pair because the snail will scavenge any excess food that falls to the bottom of the tank, and they will also eat algae. So if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, peaceful tankmate for your betta, then a nerite snail is one of the best options.
Can Betta Fish Live with Mystery Snails
Betta fish can live with mystery snails. They make good tank mates since they are both peaceful animals that won’t bother each other. Plus, the snail’s algae eating habits can actually help keep the tank clean for the betta. Just be sure to provide hiding places for the snail since bettas may nip at their long eyestalks and tentacles.
Can Betta Fish Live with Shrimp
Can Betta Fish Live with Cherry Shrimp
Bettas can live with cherry shrimp. However, since cherry shrimp are smaller and might be eaten by a Betta fish, it’s important to only introduce cherry shrimp into larger betta fish tanks.
Can Betta Fish Live with Amano Shrimp
Betta fish can live with Amano shrimp and they can do quite well together. The larger size of the Amano shrimp helps to keep the betta fish from seeing them as food, and they can help keep plants and decorations in the tank free of algae.
Just make sure that your betta tank is big enough for both species (at least 10 gallons), and that there is plenty of hiding places for the shrimp.
Can Betta Fish Live with Algae Eaters
Will a Betta Fish Kill an Algae Eater
Betta fish are known to be aggressive, and they will often attack other fish in the tank. However, they generally won’t go after fish that are too big for them to challenge. So, if you have an algae eater that is bigger or faster than your betta fish, it’s unlikely that your betta will try to kill it.
Can Betta Fish Live with Siamese Algae Eaters
Betta fish can certainly live with Siamese algae eaters, as long as you have a large enough tank. These fish are actually quite peaceful and make good tank mates for Bettas. Just be sure to give your fish plenty of space to swim and hide, and you’ll be all set!
Betta and Chinese Algae Eater
Chinese algae eaters (Ctenopharyngodon idella) are a type of freshwater fish that can help control algae growth. However, as these fish grow larger, they can become more aggressive and may attack the betta fish. For this reason, it’s important to keep an eye on the two fish and make sure they don’t start fighting.
![Best Filter for an Oscar Fish Tank Oscar fish are voracious eaters that can grow to be up to 14 inches long. They need a lot of space and a big tank, but they also need good filtration. This is because Oscars produce a large amount of waste for their size, which can quickly pollute the water if not managed properly. Read on to see the best filter for an Oscar fish tank. [toc] Best Filter for an Oscar Fish Tank ***TABLE**** Best Filter for an Oscar Fish Tank OASE Indoor Aquatics Biomaster Thermo 600 The Aquatics Biomaster Thermo 600 Filter (Buy Online) has everything you need to keep water clean and healthy for your fish, plus some cool extra features too. It comes with four different filtration stages that remove debris from the water so your tank stays clear and safe for your fish to live in. Plus, it has a built-in heater which keeps the temperature of your tank consistent so you don't have to worry about fluctuations or sudden changes affecting your fish. The OASE Indoor Aquatics Biomaster Thermo 600 is a reliable and high-quality filter that will keep your water crystal clear. It has four stages of filtration, including a pre-filter module for particle removal, two main filters to clean detritus from the water before it reaches the pump area, an activated carbon stage with 45 ppi pores to trap organic chemicals and reduce odors, and finally a polishing cartridge which traps any particles left after the other three stages have removed most of the large debris. Plus, it comes with Hel-X Biomedia that has an extremely large surface area for beneficial bacteria colonies that break down nitrogenous waste. Overall, this filter can be used on 70 to 160 gallon tanks, and if you want peace of mind about how well your tank is being filtered and heated – this canister filter is perfect for an Oscar tank. Eheim Pro 4+ 600 Filter The Eheim Pro 4+ 600 Filter (Buy Online) is the best filter for an oscar fish tank because it’s easy to use and maintain while providing a high level of filtration. It has a self-priming pump that makes starting up very simple, plus its safety hose adapter means you won’t have to worry about any accidents with this unit. We recommend going with their Pro 4+ model which has been designed specifically for tanks containing Oscars and other larger species of fish. This filter comes with everything you need including extra media baskets, spray bars, adjustable flow control valves, and more. Polar Aurora 4-Stage External Canister Filter 525GPH with 9-watt UV Light The Polar Aurora External Canister Filter (Buy Online) is an affordable yet high-quality canister filter and it has four stages of filtration (biological, mechanical, chemical and UV) that keep your fish tank crystal clear without taking up much space. If you have an Oscar Fish Tank, then you know that they are messy fish. They produce a lot of waste and your tank needs to be cleaned frequently. That's where this filter comes in handy. It can handle tanks up to 200 gallons and has a maximum flow rate of 525GPH from the built in pump. This is more than enough power for even the messiest Oscar Tanks. This unit also comes with three different media trays so you can use any type of filtration media you want - bio balls, sponges or ceramic rings. And not only does this filter provide excellent water filtration, it comes with a built in 9 Watt UV Light that allows it to easily control algae spores/bacteria and maintain clear water in your aquarium at all times. Fluval FX4 High Performance Canister Filter, External Aquarium Filter The Fluval FX4 (Buy Online) is an external filter designed specifically for aquariums housing oscars and other large tropical fish species like cichlids and catfish. There's also three different filtration stages included in this setup which will ensure that all the waste produced by your fish gets filtered out quickly leaving behind crystal clear water every time. The Fluval FX4 is the best aquarium filter on the market because it has a patented self-priming pump that moves 700 US Gal of water per hour. It also comes with all of the media you need to get started filtering your tank immediately after installation - no extra purchases necessary. This external aquarium filter is easy to install, maintain, and clean. With its multi-stage filtration process this canister filter removes harmful toxins from your water while providing superior mechanical filtration through three stages of bio-filtration using BioMax cartridges, activated carbon pads and biological ceramic rings . This powerful filter pumps out 700 US Gal (2650 L) of water per hour so it's perfect for even the largest freshwater or saltwater tanks up to 250 US Gal (900 L) Best Hang On Back Filter for an Oscar Fish Tank AquaClear Fish Tank Filter, Aquarium Filter for 60- to 110-Gallon Aquariums The AquaClear 110 (Buy Online) is a hang-on back filter that has an adjustable flow rate, and it'll last you for years. AquaClear filters make it easy, convenient, and affordable to keep your tank clean without all of the complexity and hassle of a canister filter. The AquaClear 110 filter has been designed with the hobbyist in mind; and it provides superior mechanical, chemical as well as biological filtration media at an unbeatable price point. It's ideal for aquariums up to 110 gallons (416 liters) in size and it has a flow rate of 500 U.S. gallons per hour (1,900 L/h). SeaChem – Large Aquarium Fish Tank Filter, Tidal 110 Gallon The SeaChem Tidal 110 Gallon Aquarium Filter (Buy Online) is one of the few hang on back filters specifically designed for Oscars and other larger tropical fish tanks (up to 110 gallons). This means that it has more than twice the capacity of other hang on back filters so there's no need to clean out debris as often. It also has an adjustable flow control valve - just set the dial where you want it and let the self-priming pump do its job. You can also use any kind of filtration media without worrying about clogging since the patented impeller design keeps everything running smoothly Best Sponge Filter for an Oscar Fish Tank Bacto-Surge Hikari Aquarium Solutions Foam Filter, 125 Gallons Bacto-Surge Foam Filters (Buy Online) are made from a durable foam material which allows them to last much longer than traditional sponge filters. They also don't require any electricity or have any moving parts, so you can use these as a cheap and reliable way to supplement the filtration in your Oscar tank. Best Under Gravel Filter for an Oscar Fish Tank Lee's 125/135 Premium Undergravel Filter, 18-Inch by 72-Inch Lee's 125/135 Premium Undergravel Filter (Buy Online) is the best you can get for an Oscar fish tank. It has a multi-level plate design made of high-quality plastic, so it lasts longer than standard models. And this under gravel filter can also be used to build an anoxic filter to lower nitrates, which improves overall water quality and it will also help keep your fish healthy and disease free. Best Filter Media for an Oscar Fish Tank Premium Authentic Pinky Filter Floss for Fish Tanks Premium Authentic Pinky Filter Floss for Fish Tanks (Buy Online) provides two layers of filtration to keep your tank cleaner & running more efficiently than ever before. It's made in the USA from high-quality materials that are safe for both fish and humans alike. It also reduces maintenance time because it lasts 2x as long as other brands on the market today. AQUANEAT Aquarium Filter Sponge Open Cell Foam Sheet Bio Sponge Filter Media Pad Aquaneat's Black Fine Filter Sponge (Buy Online) is made with natural materials that are non-toxic and safe for fish & plants. It provides mechanical filtration by trapping dirt particles in the pores of the sponge material so they do not get through into your aquarium water where they could cause harm to your aquatic pets. The open cell structure of the Aquaneat Sponge means you can simply rinse it under running water when needed instead of having to replace expensive filters every few weeks. And we've tested these pads with many different types of tanks and they are one of the most durable and economical ways to keep the water in a fish tank free of debris. Seachem Matrix, 4 L / 1 gal. Seachem Matrix (Buy Online) removes ammonia, nitrite and nitrate from the water column in freshwater tanks through a process called denitrification. It does this by providing an environment where beneficial bacteria thrive and convert harmful toxins into less harmful forms (even anoxic bacteria that break down nitrates). This process reduces stress on aquarium inhabitants by reducing their exposure to these toxins while also maintaining pristine water quality in your aquarium Eheim AEH2507051 Mech Filter Media for Aquarium, 1-Liter Eheim Ceramic Cylinders (Buy Online) are reusable so you don't have to waste money on disposable filter cartridges or sponges every time you clean your tank. Simply rinse them out in decholorinated water when they get clogged, and you can reuse them indefinitely. Oscar Fish Tank Size A 70 gallon tank will work for an Oscar, but it's better to keep them in a 100+ gallon tank. The bigger the better. More space promotes greater health while also keeping them happier which in turn reduces the risk of stress and disease. Oscar Fish Water Parameters Oscar Fish Water pH Level Oscars prefer water with a pH between 6 and 8, but they prefer slightly acidic water and they can live in water that has a pH as low as 5.5 quite comfortably. Oscar Fish Nitrite Level The nitrite level in your tank should be at 0 ppm once your tank has cycled. Nevertheless, a weekly 10% water change with fresh water from the tap is always good early on in the cycle to reduce nitrites. Oscar Fish Nitrate Level To keep your Oscar healthy you want to keep your nitrate levels between 10-40 ppm. It's important that you test the water with a Nitrate Test Kit (Buy Online) to ensure the nitrate levels in your tank aren't reaching dangerous levels. If the nitrates in your tank stay consistently over 40ppm, it’s time to clean or replace old filters, clean out uneaten food, vacuum the gravel, and do at least a 25% water change. Oscar Fish Water Temperature The ideal water temperature for Oscars is 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit (23 - 27 Celcius). It's important to remember that Oscar Fish are from the Amazon Rainforest and they need a heater in their tank especially during the winter time If you want to know what size heater you need for your tank you can use our Fish Tank Heater Calculator (Click Here) Oscar Fish Water Change Water changes are an essential part of fish keeping for any type of fish. This is especially true when you have larger fish like oscars that produce more waste. Water changes, or partial water changes, should be done every 1-2 weeks depending on how many fish you keep in your tank Why Is My Oscar Fish Tank Cloudy Fish tank water can become cloudy for a few reasons. The most usual is that the aquarium is either experiencing a bacteria bloom or there is algae in the water column. If this is the case, you’ll need to do a 50%-75% water change immediately. You can also use an inline UV filter if water changes and regular tank maintenance aren't getting control of your cloudy water problem. How To Keep an Oscar Fish Tank Clean Water Changes Vacuum the Gravel Bed Cleaning the Filter Removing uneaten food from tank Check for any algae growth on plants or glass walls of aquarium and clean as needed Test the water regularly Do Oscar Fish Need a Filter Yes, Oscar fish need a filter because they are messy eaters that produce a lot of waste. The filter helps with this issue and also improves the water quality by converting harmful ammonia into less toxic nitrates.](https://thepetsupplyguy.com/wp-content/uploads/Best-Filter-for-Oscar-Fish-Tank-464x290.jpg)
