All fish / Osphronemidae

Betta ibanorum

Betta ibanorum

Also known as iban betta, ibanorum betta, betta ibanorum, ikan pelaga, ベタ・イバノルム

Betta ibanorum is a small wild betta from forest streams in Sarawak. It belongs to the Betta pugnax group. Mature males are brownish with iridescent green or turquoise scales on the gill covers and in the fins. Keepers of wild bettas like it for its quiet charm and interesting breeding behaviour.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

6 cm

Temperature

22 to 27 °C

pH

4 to 6.5

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

A pair, or a small group in a larger tank

Diet

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

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

4 to 6 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

Breeding

This species is a paternal mouthbrooder. The male carries the eggs and fry in his mouth for around 10 to 14 days. Pairs breed fairly readily in a quiet, dimly lit tank with soft, acidic water, but they are rare in the hobby.

Good to know

The tank needs a tight-fitting lid because it can jump. It is easily confused with other pugnax-group bettas, so keep a record of collection locality and do not hybridise it with them.