Mahachai Betta (Betta mahachaiensis) Care Guide

A wild betta species discovered in 2012 near the city of Mahachai in Thailand, unique among wild bettas for its tolerance of slightly brackish water.

Overview

Betta mahachaiensis is a species in the family Osphronemidae. A wild betta species discovered in 2012 near the city of Mahachai in Thailand, unique among wild bettas for its tolerance of slightly brackish water. Males display brilliant iridescent green scales over a dark body. Smaller and more peaceful than domestic bettas, it can be kept in pairs or groups in well-planted tanks with hiding spots.

Taxonomy

Family: Osphronemidae
Genus: Betta
Scientific name: Betta mahachaiensis
Other names: Betta mahachaiensis, Mahachai Fighter
Origin: Southeast Asia

Habitat

Endemic to the Mahachai region of Samut Sakhon Province in central Thailand. Inhabits brackish-influenced coastal swamps dominated by the palm Nypa fruticans, with slightly saline, soft water. A bubble-nesting wild betta described to science in 2012 and threatened by habitat loss.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 40 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 6.5-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 4-5 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: top
Compatible tank mates: Peaceful small fish, Kuhli Loach, Corydoras, Shrimp (with caution)
Avoid with: Domestic Bettas, Aggressive fish, Fin-nippers

Breeding

Breeding strategy: bubble-nester
Breeding difficulty: intermediate