WYSIWYG Betta Imbellis PAIR

The Betta Imbellis, scientifically known as Betta imbellis, is a small, peaceful species of wild betta native to the slow-moving waters, swamps, and rice paddies of southern Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Also known as the Peaceful Betta, this species is admired for its iridescent coloration, elegant finnage, and calm temperament compared to the more aggressive Betta splendens.

Adult Betta Imbellis typically reach about 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm) in length. Males display vibrant metallic blue-green or turquoise bodies with deep red or maroon highlights on the fins and a striking black band on the caudal fin. Females are generally duller, with shorter fins and less intense coloration, but both sexes are attractive and exhibit natural beauty, especially in planted tanks with subdued lighting.

A tank of at least 10 gallons is suitable for a pair or small group. Betta Imbellis prefer a well-structured aquarium with a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, dense planting, floating plants for cover, driftwood, and leaf litter to replicate their natural blackwater habitat. Gentle filtration and subdued lighting help reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.

Water parameters for the Betta Imbellis should include a temperature range of 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C), a pH between 5.5 and 7.0, and soft to moderately hard water. Regular water changes and stable conditions are important for their health, as wild bettas are sensitive to pollution and rapid changes in water chemistry.

Feeding Betta Imbellis is straightforward, as they are carnivorous and readily accept a variety of high-protein foods. Offer high-quality betta pellets, as well as frozen or live foods such as daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae. Variety and quality in their diet will help enhance coloration and promote breeding behavior.

Betta Imbellis are far less aggressive than Betta splendens and can sometimes be kept in pairs or small groups, especially in larger, well-decorated tanks. However, males can be territorial, so monitor carefully and provide plenty of hiding places. They can be kept with other peaceful, small fish such as rasboras, microdevario, and small catfish.

Breeding Betta Imbellis is possible and follows the bubble-nest building behavior common to the genus. Males construct bubble nests at the water’s surface, and courtship involves an embrace, after which eggs are gathered into the nest. Males guard and tend the eggs until hatching. Fry should be fed infusoria or newly hatched baby brine shrimp.

Betta imbellis (Betta Imbellis) is a captivating, peaceful species that brings natural beauty and fascinating behavior to blackwater or Southeast Asian biotope aquariums.