All fish / Osphronemidae

Slim Betta

Betta bellica

Also known as slender betta, bellica betta, warrior betta, betta bellicca, ikan laga, ベタ・ベリカ, cupang bellica, 好斗搏鱼

Betta bellica is one of the largest wild bettas, a slim fish whose males show rows of iridescent blue-green scales on a brownish body with long pelvic fins. It is kept by wild betta enthusiasts who enjoy its size, shimmering colour and interesting behaviour in a dim, leaf-littered blackwater tank.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

10 cm

Temperature

24 to 28 °C

pH

4.5 to 6.5

Smallest tank

100 litres

Keep as

Pair or small group in a spacious tank

Diet

Carnivore: live and frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and small insects, plus quality granules

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

4 to 6 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra, Indonesia (peat swamp forests)

Breeding

It is a bubble nest builder, with the male guarding a nest of foam among plants or at the surface after an embrace beneath it. Breeding is achievable in soft, acidic water with calm conditions and plenty of cover, but water quality must be very stable.

Good to know

Males can be territorial with each other, so give plenty of space and cover and keep a tight lid, as it jumps. Wild habitat is under pressure from peat swamp clearance, so captive-bred stock is preferable.