All fish / Osphronemidae

Balunga Betta

Betta balunga

Also known as balunga betta, betta balunga, wild betta balunga, balunga fighting fish, ikan pelaga balunga, ベタ・バルンガ, cupang balunga, 巴伦加斗鱼

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A wild Bornean betta from the Betta akarensis group, with a sturdy brownish body that shows reddish tones and greenish iridescent scales on the gill covers and fins. Keepers value it as a hardy, characterful wild betta that is calmer than many domestic fighters.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

9 cm

Temperature

22 to 27 °C

pH

5.5 to 7

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

A pair or a small group with plenty of cover

Diet

Carnivore: live and frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp, insects and quality small pellets

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 8 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Borneo: Sabah (Malaysia) and Kalimantan Utara (Indonesia)

Breeding

A paternal mouthbrooder: the male holds the eggs and fry in his mouth for around two weeks after an embracing spawn. It breeds fairly readily in a quiet, well-covered tank with soft water, though males may swallow eggs if disturbed.

Good to know

Needs a tightly fitting lid as it jumps well, and males can squabble so give plenty of hiding places. Often confused with related species such as Betta akarensis and Betta chini, so buy from sources that state the collection locality.