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Betta Livida
Betta livida
Also known as Livid Betta, Green Betta
Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Osphronemidae
Betta livida is a rare and stunning wild betta species native to Southeast Asia, known for its deep blue coloration and elongated body shape. This species is significantly more challenging to care for than common bettas, requiring specific water conditions and careful tank management. It is best suited for experienced aquarists who understand the needs of wild bettas.
Where it's from
Native to the Bernam river basin
Malaysia
At a glance
- Size
- 3.5 in
- 9 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal
- 76 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 4.5-6.0
- GH
- 36–143 ppm
- 2–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 3-5 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Betta livida requires a diet of high-quality live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects. Feed small portions daily or every other day, adjusting based on appetite and tank conditions. This species is a carnivore and may refuse frozen or prepared foods, making live food essential for long-term health.
Behavior
Betta livida is a solitary and highly aggressive species that must be housed alone. Males are extremely territorial and will attack any other fish, including females outside of breeding season. This species prefers heavily planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and exhibits secretive behavior, spending much time among vegetation.
Breeding
Breeding Betta livida is extremely difficult and requires expert knowledge of wild betta reproduction. Pairs must be carefully conditioned and introduced in heavily planted tanks with minimal disturbance. Fry are tiny and require infusoria and microscopic live foods for the first weeks of life.
Tank mates
See all 4Provides essential hiding spots and does not interfere with aggressive behavior
Creates dense vegetation for shelter and security
Hardy plant that withstands aggressive behavior and provides cover
Low-growing plant that creates hiding areas without blocking movement
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Common diseases 4Fin Rot, Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Velvet Disease, Bacterial Infection
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality, perform frequent water changes, use aquarium salt or antibacterial medication if severe
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, rubbing against objects
Gradually raise temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use ich medication, increase aeration and water changes
Velvet Disease
Gold or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, lethargy, difficulty breathing
Darken tank, raise temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use copper-free medication, improve water quality
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, swollen body, loss of appetite
Perform large water changes, use broad-spectrum antibacterial medication, isolate if possible
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 3.5 in9 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal76 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 4.5-6.0
- GH
- 36–143 ppm2–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 3-5 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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