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FishmediumFreshwater

Betta Rubra

Betta rubra

📍 Southeast Asia

Ask Finn

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.

Size3.5"
Min Tank10g
semi-aggressive
Zoneall

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.

Common Diseases

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

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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)

Stats

Community tips0
Kept by0 hobbyists