Shoal & Stem
Back to Flora & Fauna

No photo yet

Sign in to add the first photo.

FishmediumFreshwater

Betta Rubra

Betta rubra

Also known as Red Betta, Aceh Betta

Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Osphronemidae

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.

At a glance

Size
3.5 in
9 cm
Min tank
10 gal
38 L
Temp
75–82°F
24–28°C
pH
6.0-7.0
GH
71–143 ppm
4–8 dGH
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Swims
Top
Lifespan
3-5 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

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.

Member photos

Photos are added when members log a tank with this species and upload a photo in their tank journal. Add your own tank to contribute.

No photos yet — add a tank with Betta Rubra to be the first!

Sign in to vote.

Common diseases 4Fin Rot, Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Velvet Disease, Bacterial Infection

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Fraying, discoloration, or deterioration of fin edges; lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality, perform frequent water changes, use aquarium salt or antibacterial medication if severe

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, scratching against objects

Treatment

Raise temperature to 28-30 C (82-86 F), use ich medication, perform water changes, ensure good filtration

Velvet Disease

Symptoms

Gold or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, lethargy, rapid breathing

Treatment

Reduce light exposure, raise temperature slightly, use copper-based medication, improve water quality

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, color fading

Treatment

Improve water conditions, use antibacterial medication, isolate affected fish if possible, maintain pristine tank cleanliness

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.

Keepers’ experiences

Keep Betta Rubra? Share how it's going.

Nobody has shared one yet. A few lines on how they've done in your tank help the next keeper.

Sign in to share