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Betta Rubra
Betta rubra
📍 Southeast Asia
Betta rubra is a stunning wild-type betta species native to Southeast Asia, known for its deep red coloration and elegant finnage. Unlike the more commonly kept Betta splendens, this species is less aggressive and can sometimes be kept in pairs or small groups under proper conditions. These fish are prized by experienced aquarists for their natural beauty and interesting behavioral dynamics.
Care Guide
Diet
Betta rubra are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of small live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. High-quality sinking pellets designed for carnivorous fish can supplement live foods. Feed small portions once or twice daily, adjusting quantity to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues.
Behavior
Betta rubra are active swimmers that patrol their territory throughout the day, displaying elaborate fin displays when excited or threatened. They are less aggressive than Betta splendens but still territorial, particularly males. These fish are curious and interactive, often responding to their keeper's presence and showing personality.
Breeding
Breeding Betta rubra requires careful conditioning of pairs and a separate breeding tank with dense vegetation or spawning mops. Males build bubble nests and are mouthbrooders, caring for eggs and fry. Breeding is moderately difficult and requires patience, as pairs must be carefully monitored to prevent aggression.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy different water zones
Algae-eating bottom dweller that doesn't compete for food or space
Peaceful bottom feeder that helps maintain tank cleanliness
Live plant that provides shelter and reduces aggression
Hardy plant that creates hiding spaces and improves water quality
Common Diseases
Fin Rot
Fraying, discoloration, or deterioration of 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, scratching against objects
Raise temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use ich medication, perform water changes, ensure good filtration
Velvet Disease
Gold or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, lethargy, rapid breathing
Reduce light exposure, raise temperature slightly, use copper-based medication, improve water quality
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, color fading
Improve water conditions, use antibacterial medication, isolate affected fish if possible, maintain pristine tank cleanliness
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Carnivore - small live foods and quality pellets
- lifespan
- 3-5 years
- max size
- 9 cm (3.5 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)