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Betta Mahachaiensis
Betta mahachaiensis
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Osphronemidae
📍 Thailand (Samut Sakhon province)
Betta mahachaiensis is a wild betta discovered in 2012 in the brackish coastal habitats of Samut Sakhon, Thailand — making it unique among bettas in its tolerance for slightly saline conditions. Males display striking iridescent teal-blue scale edging similar to B. smaragdina. It builds bubble nests and is less aggressive than B. splendens toward other species. Its restricted wild range makes it important for conservation-minded hobbyists.
Care Guide
Diet
Feed high-quality carnivorous betta pellets as a staple, supplemented 3-4 times weekly with live or frozen small invertebrates such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. Offer small portions once daily, feeding only what can be consumed in 2-3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.
Behavior
Mahachai bettas are moderately aggressive toward other males but less combative than Siamese fighting fish toward other species. They are surface-oriented swimmers that build bubble nests and display striking iridescent teal-blue coloration when establishing territory or courting. Males are territorial but can tolerate peaceful community tank mates in adequately sized aquariums.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is possible but requires careful conditioning and dedicated breeding tanks. Males build bubble nests and will guard fry, but pairs must be closely monitored for aggression. Success rates are moderate; remove the female after spawning to prevent injury, and raise fry on infusoria and micro foods before transitioning to larger foods.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water zones and avoid conflict with surface-dwelling bettas
Peaceful bottom-dweller that poses no threat and helps maintain tank cleanliness without competing for food
Non-aggressive invertebrate that occupies different ecological niche; bettas rarely target snails
Small, fast-moving fish that may trigger predatory response; only suitable in larger tanks with dense vegetation
Similar size and temperament may lead to territorial disputes; requires careful observation and ample space
Common Diseases
Fin Rot
Frayed, discolored, or deteriorating fin edges; lethargy and reduced appetite
Perform 25-50% water changes every 2-3 days, maintain pristine water quality, and treat with aquarium salt (1 tsp per gallon) or antibacterial medication if severe
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, excessive scratching against objects, labored breathing
Raise water temperature to 28-30°C, perform daily water changes, and treat with ich medication or salt; maintain treatment for 7-10 days
Velvet Disease
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, rapid gill movement, lethargy
Reduce light exposure, raise temperature to 28-30°C, and treat with copper-based medication or salt; perform frequent water changes
Popeye
One or both eyes bulging outward, cloudiness, potential eye loss if untreated
Perform immediate 50% water change to improve water quality, treat with antibacterial medication, and monitor for secondary infections
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Carnivore – betta pellets, live/frozen small invertebrates
- notes
- Tolerates low-level brackish conditions (SG 1.002–1.005)
- lifespan
- 3–5 years
- max size
- 6.5 cm (2.6 in)
- tank size
- 10 gallons minimum
- temperament
- Moderately aggressive toward male conspecifics
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5–8.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 5–20 dGH
- temperature
- 75–86°F (24–30°C)