Slender Betta

Betta bellica is one of the larger wild Betta species, reaching up to 12 cm, with a long, streamlined body and subtle iridescent colouration. It is a mouthbrooder native to slow-moving forest streams in Malaysia and Sumatra. Despite its scientific name, it is relatively peaceful and can be kept in pairs or trios in a sufficiently large, well-planted aquarium.

Water: temp 23–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft to moderately hard. Tank: minimum 80L per pair; well-planted with driftwood and tight-fitting lid. Feeding: carnivore — live invertebrates, frozen bloodworm, earthworms; accepts pellets. Behaviour: peaceful; males mouthbrood eggs; males may spar mildly when establishing hierarchy. Compatibility: suitable with medium-sized peaceful fish; avoid fin-nippers.