Red Betta

Betta rubra is found in the peat swamp forests of northern Sumatra, Indonesia, where it inhabits shallow, darkly stained blackwater streams beneath dense forest canopy. Males are spectacularly coloured in deep red with blue-green scale iridescence. This demanding species rewards careful husbandry with breathtaking colour.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 4.0–6.0, very soft (0–4 GH), blackwater with Indian almond leaves. Tank: 30L minimum, heavy cover, leaf litter substrate, low flow. Feeding: Live micro-invertebrates; may refuse dry food — live daphnia and mosquito larvae preferred. Behaviour: Peaceful mouthbrooder; males brood for 10–14 days. Compatibility: Species tank only or with tiny, non-competitive blackwater fish.