No photo yet
Sign in to add the first photo.
Betta Stigmosa
Betta stigmosa
Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Osphronemidae
Betta stigmosa is a wild-type betta species native to Southeast Asia, known for its elongated body and subtle coloration compared to ornamental bettas. This peaceful mouthbrooder is less aggressive than its domesticated cousins and makes an interesting addition to species-specific or community tanks. They are moderately challenging to keep and breed, requiring specific water conditions and careful tank management.
Where it's from
Native to the Terengganu river basin
Malaysia
At a glance
- Size
- 3.5 in
- 9 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal
- 76 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
- 4-6 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Betta stigmosa are carnivorous and prefer small live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects. Frozen foods like mosquito larvae and brine shrimp are acceptable alternatives. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, adjusting quantity based on appetite and tank bioload.
Behavior
This species exhibits territorial behavior but is less aggressive than Betta splendens. Males may display elaborate fin flaring and color changes when establishing dominance. They are mouthbrooding fish that exhibit parental care, with males protecting eggs and fry in their mouths during early development.
Breeding
Betta stigmosa are mouthbrooders, with males incubating eggs and fry in their mouths for 10-14 days. Breeding requires a dedicated tank with dense vegetation, stable water conditions, and careful observation to prevent fry predation. Pairs should be conditioned with high-quality live foods before spawning.
Tank mates
See all 5Peaceful algae eater that won't compete for food or territory
Small tetras may be viewed as prey; only suitable in larger tanks with adequate space
Bottom-dwelling catfish that occupy different water zones and won't conflict
Provides shelter and breeding sites without being uprooted
Hardy plant that creates hiding spots and doesn't require substrate planting
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 Stigmosa to be the first!
Sign in to vote.
Common diseases 4Fin Rot, Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Velvet Disease, Bacterial Infection
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration, lethargy
Improve water quality, perform 25% water changes daily, treat with aquarium salt or antibacterial medication if severe
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, excessive scratching, rapid breathing
Raise temperature gradually to 28-30 C (82-86 F), treat with ich medication, increase aeration, perform daily water changes
Velvet Disease
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, lethargy, difficulty breathing
Reduce light exposure, treat with copper-free medication, maintain stable water parameters, increase water changes
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, cloudy eyes, swollen abdomen, loss of appetite
Isolate affected fish, treat with antibacterial medication, improve water quality, maintain optimal temperature
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. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 3.5 in9 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal76 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 4-6 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
Keep Betta Stigmosa? 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.