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FishmediumFreshwater

Betta Hendra

Betta hendra

📍 Southeast Asia

Ask Finn

Betta hendra is a wild-type betta species native to Southeast Asia, known for its striking coloration and relatively peaceful temperament compared to Siamese fighting fish. This species is suitable for experienced aquarists interested in keeping wild bettas and appreciates heavily planted tanks with minimal water flow. They are smaller than domesticated bettas and display fascinating natural behaviors in properly designed environments.

Size2.5"
Min Tank10g
semi-aggressive
Zonemiddle

Care Guide

Diet

Betta hendra are carnivorous and prefer small live foods such as fruit flies, mosquito larvae, and small aquatic invertebrates. Frozen foods like bloodworms and daphnia can supplement their diet. Feed small portions once or twice daily, adjusting quantity based on appetite and tank conditions.

Behavior

Betta hendra are relatively peaceful compared to Betta splendens but may still display territorial aggression toward other males. They are active swimmers that prefer densely planted environments where they can explore and hide. Males may display elaborate fin flaring and color changes during territorial or courtship displays.

Breeding

Breeding Betta hendra is challenging and requires specific conditions including soft, acidic water and plenty of vegetation for nest building. Males build bubble nests and exhibit paternal care. Breeding pairs should be carefully monitored as aggression can occur, and fry require infusoria and micro foods initially.

Common Diseases

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Fraying or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality, perform frequent water changes, treat with aquarium salt or antibacterial medication if severe

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, scratching against objects, rapid breathing

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28-30 C (82-86 F), treat with ich medication, increase aeration and perform water changes

Velvet Disease

Symptoms

Gold or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, lethargy, difficulty breathing

Treatment

Darken tank, raise temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), treat with copper-based medication or salt baths

Dropsy

Symptoms

Bloated abdomen, scales standing out, lethargy, loss of appetite

Treatment

Isolate fish, improve water quality, treat with antibiotics, provide high-quality food with added vitamins

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Quick Facts

diet
Carnivore - small live foods and frozen foods
lifespan
3-5 years
max size
6.5 cm (2.5 in)
tank size
10 gallons minimum
temperament
semi-aggressive

Water it likes

ph
6.0-7.0
ammonia
0 ppm
nitrate
<20 ppm
hardness
4-8 dGH
temperature
75–82°F (24–28°C)

Stats

Community tips0
Kept by0 hobbyists