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Betta Pugnax
Betta pugnax
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Osphronemidae
📍 Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore
The Penang Betta or Forest Betta is a paternal mouthbrooder from clearwater forest streams in Peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the earliest Betta species to be scientifically described and has been kept by hobbyists for over a century. Males display brown-grey bodies with metallic green scale edging and elongated ventral fins. Less showy than newer cultivars, it is valued by wild betta enthusiasts for its natural behaviour and interesting breeding process.
Care Guide
Diet
Forest Bettas are strict carnivores requiring live or frozen foods as their primary diet. Offer bloodworms, daphnia, and small earthworms 5-6 times weekly, supplemented with high-quality micro pellets designed for small carnivorous fish. Occasional live mosquito larvae or small insects provide enrichment and encourage natural hunting behavior.
Behavior
Forest Bettas are moderately aggressive and territorial, displaying elaborate fin displays and color changes during confrontations. Males are solitary and will harass females outside of breeding season, requiring careful tank management. They inhabit mid-water zones and are most active during dawn and dusk, exhibiting curious but cautious behavior in established tanks.
Breeding
Forest Bettas are paternal mouthbrooders, a fascinating breeding strategy where males incubate eggs and fry in their mouths. Breeding in captivity is possible but requires careful conditioning, separate breeding tanks, and patience—fry are released after 10-14 days. Success depends on compatible pairs, optimal water conditions (pH 6.0-7.0, 24-26°C), and minimal disturbance during incubation.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae eaters that occupy bottom zones, minimizing conflict with mid-water bettas
Small, fast-moving schooling fish that avoid betta aggression through speed and group dynamics
Tiny, peaceful fish suitable for larger tanks; monitor for aggression during breeding season
May be viewed as food; only suitable in heavily planted tanks with adequate hiding spaces
Nocturnal bottom-dweller that avoids daytime interaction with territorial bettas
Larger shrimp less likely to be predated; still requires dense vegetation and monitoring
Common Diseases
Fin Rot
Frayed, discolored, or deteriorating fin edges; lethargy and reduced appetite
Perform 25% water changes every 2-3 days, maintain pristine water quality (0 ammonia, <10 ppm nitrate), 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 temperature to 28-30°C gradually, perform daily 25% water changes, and treat with ich medication or salt therapy; maintain treatment for 10-14 days
Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, rapid gill movement, lethargy
Increase aeration, dim lighting, raise temperature to 28°C, and treat with copper-based medication or salt; perform daily water changes and monitor closely
Popeye (Exophthalmia)
One or both eyes bulging abnormally, cloudiness, potential eye loss if untreated
Perform immediate 50% water change, check water parameters, treat with antibacterial medication, and ensure excellent water quality; may indicate bacterial infection or poor conditions
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Carnivore – live/frozen bloodworms, daphnia, earthworms, micro pellets
- breeding
- Paternal mouthbrooder
- lifespan
- 3–5 years
- max size
- 9 cm (3.5 in)
- tank size
- 15 gallons minimum
- temperament
- Moderately aggressive; harasses females outside of spawning
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.5–7.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <10 ppm
- hardness
- 1–12 dGH
- temperature
- 72–82°F (22–28°C)