Betta stiktos

Betta stiktos is a bubblenesting wild betta from southern Thailand, closely related to B. splendens and B. imbellis. Its name refers to its distinctive spotted pattern — each metallic scale creates an individual spot of iridescent blue-green or red, producing a visually complex and attractive appearance. Males are territorial and display vividly.

This species inhabits vegetated ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams in southern Thailand, where water is warm and often soft. In the aquarium, conditions similar to other Southeast Asian wild bettas suit it well: slightly acidic, soft water with abundant plant cover and a tight lid. Males may coexist cautiously in large tanks with heavy planting but are best kept one per tank.

Betta stiktos is not as widely kept as B. imbellis or B. splendens, making it a prized find for wild Betta collectors. It breeds readily using the same approach as other bubblenesting bettas and the young are relatively easy to raise.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft (GH 2–8) — soft acidic water replicating its native marshes. Tank: 40 L with floating vegetation, leaf litter, and tight lid; low to moderate flow. Feeding: live and frozen invertebrates; micro pellets and quality flake accepted after acclimatisation. Breeding: bubblenester; male builds nest and guards eggs; remove female after spawning. Compatibility: males aggressive to conspecifics; compatible with small peaceful nano fish.