One-spot Betta

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the Mahakam River basin in East Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). Populates clear forest streams flowing over smooth rock, sand and leaf litter, often ascending mountain streams.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Howong Betta (Betta unimaculata). One of the "giants" of the family (unimaculata group). "Unimaculata" (one spot) refers to the black ocellus present on the caudal peduncle, sometimes faded. Very wide head adapted for incubation and robust scales.

Social Behavior: Aggressive and intolerant predator. Although juveniles may tolerate each other, adults (especially females among themselves) will fight fiercely. Requires very large tanks if kept in a group, but a single pair is much safer.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Brownish base color. Males develop stunning bluish or metallic green-gold reflections on the cheeks (opercula) and flanks, while females are noticeably duller and lacking iridescence. Females are often the angriest of the pair.

Aquarium Setup: Robust tank of at least 100 cm (40 inches). Requires a lot of free water to swim, massive woods to serve as visual hiding places, and above all a SEALED lid: they have the muscular power to push or break through light lids and jump out.

Diet and Feeding: Voracious macro-predator. Literally eats anything that fits in its mouth (including small fish). Feed large frozen or live insects (crickets, mealworms, large earthworms) and cichlid pellets. Be careful not to overfeed.

Water Quality: Extraordinarily adaptable. Lives without problems in weakly acidic to slightly alkaline waters (pH 5.5-7.5), but appreciates clean, highly oxygenated water and regular water changes given the massive size that generates pollution.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Unsuitable for the classic community aquarium. Cohabits only with fish of similar or larger size that are not aggressive (e.g. large Barbs, peaceful bottom-dwelling Cichlids). Any fish smaller than 5 cm (2 inches) will be actively hunted and eaten in one bite.

Aquarium Reproduction: Mouthbrooder. The male incubates a cloud of large eggs for 14-21 days. Due to his voracity, young inexperienced males tend to swallow the first broods. Needs total tranquility.

Risks and Diseases: Exceptional jumper. If there is even 1 cm (half an inch) of gap near the filter cables, the Betta unimaculata will find it and end up dried on the floor. It is a physically powerful fish and almost unassailable by common diseases.