All fish / Osphronemidae

Foerschi Betta

Betta foerschi

Also known as foerschi betta, forschi betta, foerschii, wild betta foerschi, mouthbrooding betta, ベタ・フォルスキー, cupang foerschi, 福氏斗鱼

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A wild betta from the blackwater peat swamps of Borneo, with a dusky body that shows blue green sheen on the fins and two bright orange to red bars on the gill covers of males. Hobbyists keep it for its subtle colouring and calm nature, and it suits a dim, heavily planted tank with leaf litter.

Care at a glance

Care level

Hard

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

6 cm

Temperature

23 to 28 °C

pH

4 to 6.5

Smallest tank

45 litres

Keep as

A pair, or a small group in a larger tank

Diet

Carnivore: live and frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp, small insects, with some quality granules

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

3 to 5 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Central Kalimantan, Borneo (Indonesia)

Breeding

The male broods the eggs in his mouth for around 10 to 14 days before releasing free swimming fry. Spawning is achievable in soft, acidic water with a quiet setup, but males under stress may swallow the clutch.

Good to know

Needs very soft, acidic water and a tight fitting lid, as it jumps well. Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to peat swamp loss, so captive bred fish are preferable.