Howong Betta (Betta unimaculata) Care Guide
Betta unimaculata is a large Bornean mouthbrooding betta from clear flowing streams, an active predator best housed alone or with peaceful, robust tankmates.
Overview
Betta unimaculata, the Howong betta, is one of the largest known species of Betta. Described by Popta in 1905, it belongs to the family Osphronemidae and shows a single dark spot near the caudal base. It is an active, personable predator.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Betta
- Scientific name: Betta unimaculata
- Described by: Popta, 1905
- Common synonyms: One-spot Betta
Habitat
The species is endemic to the eastern portion of Borneo, in Indonesian East Kalimantan. It inhabits clear, flowing streams and isolated elevated pools, as well as turbid forested streams.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L for a pair
- Minimum base dimensions: 80 x 30 cm
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 4-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Provide driftwood, leaf litter and dim lighting with gentle air-powered sponge filtration. These fish are excellent jumpers, so the tank must be kept well covered.
Diet
A carnivore, Betta unimaculata prefers small live or frozen foods such as Daphnia, Artemia and bloodworm. Captive fish also accept dried products, and larger individuals will take occasional earthworms.
Compatibility
This semi-aggressive species is not recommended for a standard community tank. It is best kept alone or with very peaceful species; males are aggressive toward one another, but pairs can coexist if allowed to form naturally. Avoid other male bettas and tiny nano fish.
Breeding
The species is a paternal mouthbrooder. Incubation lasts about 10-14 days, after which the fry are large enough (5 mm or more) to accept motile foods immediately.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Data Deficient. Insufficient information is available to assess the extinction risk of this species.