All fish / Osphronemidae

Fat Betta

Betta pinguis

Also known as fat betta, chubby betta, pinguis betta, betta pinguis, ベタ・ピングイス, cupang pinguis, 胖斗鱼

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Betta pinguis is a heavily built, rather stocky wild betta from the B. pugnax group, usually plain brownish with faint greenish iridescence on the gill covers and fins. It is kept by wild betta enthusiasts for its calm nature and interesting mouthbrooding behaviour rather than bright colour.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

9 cm

Temperature

22 to 28 °C

pH

5 to 7

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

Pair or small group with plenty of cover

Diet

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

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 8 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Indonesia: western Kalimantan, Borneo (Kapuas basin)

Breeding

It is a paternal mouthbrooder: the male holds the eggs and fry in his mouth for around two weeks. Breeding is achievable in a quiet, dimly lit species tank with soft, acidic water, though males may swallow broods if disturbed.

Good to know

Rarely available and often confused with other pugnax group bettas, so buy from sources that state collection locality. Needs a tight fitting lid as it can jump.