Krabi Mouthbrooder (Betta simplex) Care Guide
Betta simplex is a mouthbrooding wild betta endemic to limestone springs near Krabi, Thailand, unusual for tolerating hard, alkaline water.
Overview
Betta simplex is a wild betta of the family Osphronemidae, described by Kottelat in 1994. According to Seriously Fish it is known only from Krabi province in southern peninsular Thailand. Unusually for the genus, it occurs in neutral to alkaline, calcium-rich water and is a paternal mouthbrooder.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Betta
- Scientific name: Betta simplex
- Described: Kottelat, 1994
Habitat
According to Seriously Fish and Wikipedia, the species inhabits karstic limestone springs and wetlands near Krabi. The type locality features deep limestone sinkholes forming pools with a distinctive blue-green colour caused by a high proportion of dissolved calcium carbonate; fish congregate under overhanging vegetation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 10-25 °dGH
- Lifespan: 2-4 years
- Water flow: low; hard, alkaline water tolerated
Diet
Betta simplex is carnivorous, likely preying on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates in nature. Seriously Fish reports captive fish accept dried foods but should receive small live or frozen foods such as Daphnia, Artemia or chironomid larvae regularly.
Compatibility
A mid-water species. Seriously Fish notes it is not among the more aggressive members of the genus and can be maintained in a pair or group, but it is not recommended for the standard community aquarium. Other male bettas and aggressive fish should be avoided.
Breeding
Betta simplex is a paternal mouthbrooder. According to Seriously Fish, the male incubates eggs for roughly 9 to 16 days; popular accounts cite an incubation of about 10 days before fry are released.
Conservation status
Wikipedia reports Betta simplex as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, citing over-exploitation and degradation of its restricted habitat through pollution and surrounding land development.