Edith's Betta

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Widely distributed in the lower Kapuas basin (Borneo) and various neighboring islands (e.g. Sumatra). Adapts to a wide range of biotopes: acidic peat swamps (blackwater) and clearer, slightly choppy marginal waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Edith's Betta (Betta edithae). A Betta of the "pugnax" group (medium-large size). Stocky and massive body with large scales; robust head. It is one of the most robust "wild" Betta species overall.

Social Behavior: Can be territorial. Males can cohabit in large tanks (over 80 cm / 32 inches) provided everyone has their portion of hiding places. They are not aggressive towards other calm fish species.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Less bright coloration compared to its "cousins". Sand/brown body with intense metallic green-blue iridescence on the opercula (cheeks) and yellowish nuances. Females and stressed specimens present two thick horizontal dark bands ("racing stripes").

Aquarium Setup: 60-80 cm (24-32 inches) aquarium. Provide a thick cover of floating plants (Salvinia, Limnobium), woods arranged to create visual barriers. It is a strong fish that can tolerate filters with a slightly more sustained flow.

Diet and Feeding: Ravenous omnivore/predator. Quickly gets used to high-quality pellets that it swallows in one bite. For the best health conditions, alternate with abundant live and frozen food, and some dried insects.

Water Quality: Tolerant and adaptable. Survives both in "black waters" at pH 5.0, and in normal aged tap water with pH up to 7.5 and medium hardness. Keep nitrate concentration low nonetheless.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Exceptional fish for peaceful Asian community aquariums. Cohabits without any problem with Barbs (Pethia, Puntigrus), Rasboras, and Corydoras. Avoid large Gouramis or Cichlids that could attack it.

Aquarium Reproduction: Mouthbrooder. Prolific species. The male can hold up to 80-100 eggs in his mouth for 10-14 days. The released young are already of good size and ready to hunt brine shrimp nauplii.

Risks and Diseases: Tends to be "bulletproof" when compared to other Bettas. Obesity is a real risk in a community aquarium, as it is able to sweep away food before other fish.