Emerald Betta (Betta smaragdina) Care Guide
A gorgeous wild betta from northeastern Thailand and Laos with brilliant emerald green and blue iridescent scales covering the body and fins.
Overview
Betta smaragdina is a species in the family Osphronemidae. A gorgeous wild betta from northeastern Thailand and Laos with brilliant emerald green and blue iridescent scales covering the body and fins. One of the most peaceful wild betta species, males can sometimes coexist in large, well-planted tanks — though monitoring is recommended. Hardy and adaptable, it bridges the gap between wild and domestic bettas.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Betta
- Scientific name: Betta smaragdina
- Other names: Betta smaragdina, Blue Betta, Mekong Fighter
- Origin: Southeast Asia
Habitat
Native to the Khorat Plateau of north-eastern Thailand and Laos in the Mekong drainage. Inhabits shallow, still and slow-moving waters such as rice paddies, ponds and ditches. A bubble-nesting wild betta with iridescent green scaling on a dark body.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 50 L
- Temperature: 22-27 °C
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Adult size: 5-7 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: peaceful
- Swimming level: top
- Compatible tank mates: Kuhli Loach, Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora, Cherry Shrimp, Peaceful small fish
- Avoid with: Domestic Bettas, Aggressive fish, Fin-nippers
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: bubble-nester
- Breeding difficulty: beginner