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Betta Stigmosa
Betta stigmosa
📍 Southeast Asia
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.
Care Guide
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
Peaceful 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
Common Diseases
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
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Carnivore - small live foods and frozen foods
- lifespan
- 4-6 years
- max size
- 9 cm (3.5 in)
- tank size
- 20 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)