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Betta Hipposideros
Betta hipposideros
📍 Southeast Asia
Betta hipposideros is a rare and stunning mouthbrooding betta species from Southeast Asia, known for its vibrant coloration and unique hippopotamus-like mouth structure. This species is significantly more peaceful than fighting fish and can be kept in small groups or pairs under proper conditions. It requires careful water parameters and a well-planted environment to thrive in captivity.
Care Guide
Diet
Betta hipposideros are carnivorous and prefer small live foods such as micro worms, daphnia, and small insects. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, adjusting quantity based on tank bioload. Occasional frozen foods can supplement a live food diet, but live foods are essential for optimal health and coloration.
Behavior
This species exhibits complex social behaviors and is notably less aggressive than Siamese fighting fish, though males may still display territorial aggression. They are active swimmers that utilize all water zones and appreciate densely planted tanks for security. Mouthbrooding behavior is observed during breeding, with males protecting eggs and fry in their mouths.
Breeding
Betta hipposideros are mouthbrooders, making them moderately difficult to breed in captivity. Breeding requires pristine water conditions, plenty of plants for security, and careful monitoring of pair compatibility. Fry are released after 10-14 days and require infusoria and micro foods initially.
Tank Mates
Small size may trigger predatory response; monitor closely
Peaceful bottom dweller that won't compete for food or space
May be eaten if small; use larger adult shrimp only
Provides essential cover and security for this species
Hardy plant that creates shelter without requiring high light
Small peaceful fish that occupy different water zones
Common Diseases
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality, perform 25% water changes every 2-3 days, treat with aquarium salt or antibacterial medication if severe
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, excessive scratching against objects, rapid breathing
Raise temperature gradually to 28-30 C (82-86 F), treat with ich medication, perform daily water changes, ensure adequate aeration
Velvet Disease
Gold or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, lethargy, difficulty breathing
Reduce light exposure, treat with copper-free medication, maintain optimal water parameters, perform frequent water changes
Mouth Fungus
White cottony growth around mouth area, difficulty feeding, behavioral changes
Improve water quality immediately, treat with antifungal medication, isolate if possible, ensure pristine tank conditions
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Carnivore - small live foods preferred
- lifespan
- 3-5 years
- max size
- 6.5 cm (2.5 in)
- tank size
- 20 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)