Spotfin Betta - Betta macrostoma : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Spotfin Betta (Betta macrostoma) is an exceedingly rare species, and despite concerted breeding efforts that have helped preserve it from extinction and establish captive populations, its numbers remain limited, rendering it an endangered species. Consequently, in contrast to many other Betta variants that are well-suited for novice aquarists, the Spotfin Betta necessitates an exceptional level of care and attention due to its precarious status in the wild.
Unlike their more ornate captive-bred counterparts, these fish possess a distinctive appearance and personality that sets them apart. What makes the Spotfin Betta unique is their mouthbrooding behaviour, which is quite different from the bubble-nesting tendencies of other Betta varieties. Additionally, their peaceful demeanour makes them an ideal addition to any aquarium, but it's best to keep them in pairs or small groups with more females in larger tanks. However, it's important to note that they can become territorial with other tank mates and should only be kept with their own species.
Another pivotal consideration for Spotfin Betta care entails the provision of an extensively planted aquatic habitat. This measure is of paramount importance as it serves to create an environment in which these fish feel secure and at ease while also affording them a wealth of concealment options and resting locations. Some aquarists opt for gravel or sandy substrates, although Spotfin Bettas tend to exhibit a preference for bare-bottom tanks, occasionally embellished with a scattering of leaf litter.
Regarding water conditions, Spotfin Bettas demonstrate a degree of flexibility. They readily acclimate to temperatures ranging between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, along with a pH level of around 6. However, they exhibit a notable intolerance to fluctuations in these parameters once established. Thus, it is imperative to maintain water temperature and chemistry levels consistently stable, as deviations can prove detrimental to their well-being.
Regarding their physical appearance, the Spotfin Betta boasts an elongated, torpedo-shaped body with short, round dorsal and tail fins. While the male is more vibrant and colourful, with a multicoloured dorsal fin and tail that resembles a Chinese brocaded fan, the female displays the familiar two horizontal bands commonly seen in Betta Splendens.
Spotfin Betta Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between the genders of Spotfin Bettas is a relatively easy task. Male specimens tend to exhibit more prominent physical characteristics, such as a broader head shape, longer fins, and more vibrant and eye-catching colours. Additionally, males are generally larger than their female counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Betta macrostoma |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1910 |
| Other Names | Brunei Beauty |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Anabantiformes |
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Genus | Betta |
| Origins | Malaysia , Indonesia |
| Max Size | 10 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Mouthbrooder |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 4.5 - 6.5 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| TDS | 0 - 90 |
| ℉ | 68 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Spotfin Betta is an enchanting fish species that inhabits the lush waterways of Borneo Island, where it can only be found in the northern tip of the Malaysian state of Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam. These fish thrive in shallow, slow-moving, and shaded pools along streams and rivers, where the substrate is composed of clay. However, they are also known to occupy quiet pools alongside the main joining of fast-flowing, clear waterfalls. The mesmerizing sight of these fish swimming in the tranquil waters is a delight for any aquarist.
Breeding
Moving a pair of Spotfin Bettas to a separate breeding tank is a critical step towards successful breeding. Gradually increasing the water temperature by a few degrees and reducing the water level by a few inches while maintaining a 10% water change every couple of days encourages breeding behaviour.
During spawning, males display a unique behaviour of wrapping themselves around the female several times, and as she lays eggs, the male fertilizes them. This activity can last up to five hours. After spawning, the female and male collect the eggs from the aquarium floor. Then, the male mouth broods the fertilized eggs until they hatch, which takes around 30 to 35 days. However, some people report a much shorter incubation time, between 12 and 17 days.
It is crucial not to disturb the male while mouthbrooding, and the female should be left in the tank. Feeding or disturbing the male during this time can cause him to swallow the eggs. Once the fry hatch, typically between 10 to 20 of them, the female can be removed from the tank, and the male can be removed after two weeks. The fry will be large enough to accept motile foods like Artemia nauplii and microworm immediately.
Feeding small amounts of different foods daily helps increase the fry's growth rate, but overfeeding should be avoided as babies can develop intestinal problems quickly. Additionally, performing small daily water changes prevents organic waste accumulation, ensuring a healthy environment for the fry's growth.
Diet & Feeding
The dietary requirements of the Spotfin Betta are relatively simple. Once they recognize high-quality dried products as edible, they will typically accept them with ease. However, offering small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, artemia, and daphnia regularly can significantly contribute to optimal condition and colour development. While occasional earthworms can be fed to more prominent individuals, it is vital to avoid overfeeding, as these Bettas are susceptible to obesity.
