Betta channoides

Betta channoides is a paternal mouthbrooding betta from the Pampang River drainage in East Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo. Males are striking, displaying vivid red-and-blue banded colouration that intensifies during courtship. Like all mouthbrooders, spawning occurs with the male incubating the eggs and fry in his buccal cavity for around 10–14 days.

This species inhabits slow-moving, tannin-rich forest streams and peat swamps where the water is extremely soft and acidic. In the aquarium, blackwater conditions replicated with peat filtration, dried leaves, and driftwood are essential for long-term health and willingness to breed. Pairs can be kept together in a species tank with adequate hiding spots.

B. channoides remains one of the more accessible mouthbrooding Betta species for the intermediate keeper. They are not overly shy once settled and will readily display to their keeper through the glass. A carefully managed breeding project can yield broods of 8–20 fry.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 5.0–6.5, very soft (GH 1–6) — blackwater conditions with tannins are highly recommended. Tank: 40 L minimum species tank with dense vegetation, leaf litter, and low flow. Feeding: live and frozen invertebrates such as daphnia, bloodworm, and artemia; small micro pellets accepted. Breeding: male mouthbroods fry for 10–14 days; move male to separate tank after spawning to avoid stress. Compatibility: best kept as a pair or in a species-only setup; too delicate for busy community tanks.