Betta albimarginata Care Guide
Betta albimarginata is a small mouthbrooding wild betta from blackwater forest streams of East Kalimantan, Borneo.
Overview
Betta albimarginata is a small mouthbrooding wild betta described by Kottelat and Ng in 1994. Seriously Fish gives a maximum standard length of about 25-30 mm. Displaying males show brick-red flanks with crisp white fin margins and red inner fin portions, with broader heads than the females.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Betta
- Scientific name: Betta albimarginata
- Described by: Kottelat & P. K. L. Ng, 1994
Habitat
The species is endemic to the Sebuku River drainage in East Kalimantan province on Borneo. According to Seriously Fish it inhabits forest streams with moderate flow, living in very shallow water roughly 5-10 cm deep among marginal plant roots and leaf litter, in acidic blackwater conditions.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 30 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 4.5-6.5
- GH: 1-6 °dGH
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
- Setup: dim, well-covered tank with leaf litter and low flow
Diet
Betta albimarginata is a carnivore. Seriously Fish reports that in nature it feeds on insects, other small invertebrates and zooplankton. In aquaria it may accept dried foods but should be offered regular small live or frozen items such as Daphnia, Artemia and bloodworm.
Compatibility
This is a retiring species not suited to standard community tanks. Seriously Fish recommends keeping it alone or with small, peaceful companions; it can be maintained as a pair or in a group. Boisterous fish and rival male bettas are best avoided.
Breeding
The species is a paternal mouthbrooder with a protracted courtship. Seriously Fish notes that broods are small, with around ten eggs considered a good number, and an incubation period of roughly 10-21 days. Free-swimming fry are large enough to take microworm and Artemia nauplii immediately.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (assessed 2019).