Betta Taeniata

Betta taeniata

Also known as Banded Betta, Striped Betta

Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Osphronemidae

Betta taeniata is a peaceful, mouthbrooding betta species native to Southeast Asia, distinctly different from the aggressive Siamese fighting fish. This stunning fish features intricate striped patterns and is ideal for community tanks with proper tank mates. They are moderately challenging to care for but rewarding for experienced aquarists.

Where it's from

Native to the Chantaburi, Dong Nai, Kerian, Mandor and 4 other river basins

Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia

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: Peaceful
Swims: Top
Lifespan: 4-6 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Betta taeniata are carnivorous and require high-quality protein sources. Feed small live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia 2-3 times daily. Supplement with quality micro pellets designed for small carnivorous fish. Occasional frozen foods can be offered but live foods are preferred for optimal health.

Behavior

Betta taeniata are peaceful, social fish that display fascinating mouthbrooding behavior where males incubate eggs in their mouths. They are active swimmers that prefer densely planted tanks with hiding spots and are generally compatible with other peaceful species. Males can be kept together in larger, well-planted tanks, unlike their aggressive cousins.

Breeding

Breeding Betta taeniata requires patience and proper conditioning with high-quality foods. Provide a separate breeding tank with dense vegetation and low water flow. Males are mouthbrooders and will protect eggs for 10-14 days before releasing fry. Fry are relatively large and can accept small live foods immediately.

Tank mates

See all 6

Neon Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy different water zones

good

Otocinclus

Peaceful bottom dweller that helps with algae control

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrate that aids in tank maintenance

good

Java Fern

Live plant providing shelter and natural environment

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Similar size and peaceful nature but monitor for territorial behavior

caution

Fits a 20-gallon tank Peaceful

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Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date.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).