Brunei Beauty (Betta macrostoma) Care Guide
Betta macrostoma is a large mouthbrooding wild betta endemic to Brunei and northern Sarawak, kept in cool, soft, acidic water.
Overview
Betta macrostoma is a large wild betta of the family Osphronemidae, described by Regan in 1910. It is endemic to Borneo, known only from Brunei Darussalam and the northern tip of the Malaysian state of Sarawak. It is among the largest members of the genus and a paternal mouthbrooder.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Betta
- Scientific name: Betta macrostoma
- Described: Regan, 1910
Habitat
According to Seriously Fish and Wikipedia, Betta macrostoma inhabits still, shady pools at the tops of rainforest waterfalls and slow-moving stretches of rivers and streams, often in shallow water of 30 cm or less, over rocky or gravel substrate with leaf litter.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-25 °C (72-77 °F)
- pH: 4.0-5.5
- GH: 1-4 °dGH
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
- Water flow: low; cool, soft, acidic water preferred
Diet
Betta macrostoma is carnivorous, feeding naturally on insects and small invertebrates. Seriously Fish notes captive fish accept small live or frozen foods including Daphnia, Artemia and bloodworm.
Compatibility
A mid-water species best maintained as a single pair. Seriously Fish reports that males fight incessantly when housed together and that even females squabble until a dominance hierarchy forms, so additional tankmates are not advised.
Breeding
Betta macrostoma is a paternal mouthbrooder. According to Seriously Fish, the male incubates eggs in his mouth for roughly 14 to 35 days before releasing free-swimming fry.
Conservation status
Both Seriously Fish and Wikipedia report Betta macrostoma as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, owing to its restricted natural range. Export is restricted from Brunei.