How do you feel about betta and kuhli loach together?

Question

Hello, I have had two betta's (each in their own two gallon tank) and one kuhli loach (There used to be more, but they died after a year) in a five gallon. I don't want to accidentally kill any of my fish by doing this, but I've been wondering about putting my female betta in with my kuhli loach, so she can have a bigger tank, and he can have a tank mate. The only issue is, I'm afraid the female will attack my loach. He's rather peaceful, and the last time I had her in a tank with other fish, she attacked them. Is there a possibility they will be able to coexist? I have been keeping fish for two years now, and have played it safe up until now. I'd like to try something a little less safe, if it will mean a better environment for both of my fish. Thanks for your suggestion in advance, and please - don't bother to answer if you don't have any clue what I'm talking about. "Experts" only :)

Answer 1

I wouldn't worry about the Betta attacking the Loach.  Betta are generally slow swimmers and would struggle to get close the to loach, although I would imagine the loach would come off the better of the two anyway.  Betta are generaly okay with other fish species they only seem to have problems with other Bettas.  If you can ensure that both fish have hiding places you will be okay putting them togeather.

Answer 2

Kuhli loaches prefer hiding places for the day, being nocturnal.  They're also bottom dwellers.  Since bettas are mostly surface dwellers, or are supposed to be, and diurnal, you shouldn't have any problems.