Betta smaragdina Wild

Betta smaragdina, the emerald or blue-green betta, is a bubblenesting wild betta from northeastern Thailand and Laos. Males are exceptionally beautiful, with each scale edged in metallic turquoise-green that creates a shimmering mosaic pattern across the body and fins. The species inhabits rice fields, flooded forests, and slowly moving stream margins.

In the aquarium, B. smaragdina is somewhat more tolerant of neutral to slightly alkaline water than many wild bettas, making it accessible to a wider range of keepers. Males remain aggressive to each other but are generally peaceful toward other species. They build bubblenests under floating leaves and provide paternal care.

This species is a favourite among wild Betta enthusiasts for its stunning colouration and manageable care requirements. It pairs beautifully with small Southeast Asian community fish in a Thai rice paddy biotope setup.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate (GH 2–12) — more pH-tolerant than most wild bettas. Tank: 40 L with floating plants for bubble nest construction, plenty of cover, and a tight lid. Feeding: live and frozen invertebrates; pellets and flake food accepted once settled. Breeding: bubblenest builder; male guards clutch; remove female after eggs are laid. Compatibility: keep male alone or with female; peaceful toward small community fish.