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Strawberry Betta
Betta albimarginata
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Osphronemidae
📍 Southeast Asia
Betta albimarginata, the Strawberry Betta, is a small mouthbrooding wild betta from Borneo distinguished by its deep red body, white-edged fins, and the characteristic white lip border that gives it its species name. Males incubate eggs orally and are typically less aggressive than bubble-nesting bettas. They do best in densely planted species tanks or carefully managed community setups with non-nippy tankmates.
Care Guide
Diet
Strawberry Bettas are strict carnivores requiring high-protein foods. Feed micro pellets, live or frozen daphnia, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae once daily in small portions. Occasional live foods stimulate natural hunting behavior and improve coloration.
Behavior
These mouthbrooding bettas are notably less aggressive than bubble-nesting species, though males will still defend territory. They are mid-water swimmers that prefer densely planted environments where they can establish small territories and retreat when stressed. Males display elaborate fin flaring and color intensification during courtship.
Breeding
Strawberry Bettas are paternal mouthbrooders, meaning males incubate eggs orally—a rare trait among bettas. Breeding in captivity is possible but requires careful conditioning, pristine water quality, and minimal disturbance. Fry are extremely small and require infusoria or liquid fry food before accepting micro foods.
Tank Mates
Peaceful, similar size, non-aggressive schooling fish that won't nip fins or compete for food
Algae-eating bottom dweller that occupies different water zone and won't compete with betta
Small, peaceful invertebrates that occupy different ecological niche; may be eaten if too small
Similar size and temperament but may compete for territory; requires careful observation and adequate space
Tiny, peaceful schooling fish that stay in mid-water and won't threaten the betta
Common Diseases
Fin Rot
Fraying, discoloration, or deterioration of fin edges; lethargy and loss of appetite
Perform 25-50% water changes every 2-3 days, maintain pristine water quality, and treat with aquarium salt or antibacterial medication if severe
Ich (Ichthyophthirius)
White spots on body and fins, rapid gill movement, scratching against objects, lethargy
Raise temperature gradually to 28-29°C, perform daily water changes, and treat with ich medication; ensure adequate aeration
Mouth Fungus
White or grayish growth around mouth and jaw area, difficulty eating, visible tissue damage
Isolate affected fish, perform frequent water changes, treat with antifungal medication, and maintain excellent water quality
Velvet Disease
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, rapid gill movement, clamped fins, lethargy
Reduce light exposure, raise temperature to 28-29°C, perform daily water changes, and treat with copper-free velvet medication
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Carnivore – micro pellets, live/frozen daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae
- breeding
- Paternal mouthbrooder
- lifespan
- 3–5 years
- max size
- 4 cm (1.6 in)
- tank size
- 10 gallons minimum
- temperament
- Mildly aggressive toward conspecific males; generally peaceful
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.0–7.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <10 ppm
- hardness
- 1–10 dGH
- temperature
- 72–81°F (22–27°C)