Native to Myanmar (Burma), they have unique color patterns and fin shapes, including rounded tail fins.
Out of Stock
Native to Myanmar (Burma), they have unique color patterns and fin shapes, including rounded tail fins.
Slender body with vivid red-orange coloration and black barring on the fins. Males are more vibrant than females, with longer fins. Snakehead-like profile gives the species its common name.
2-3 years
Carnivorous; prefers high-quality Betta pellets or flakes, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods.
Betta channoides is an ideal choice for hobbyists seeking to explore the beauty of wild-type bettas. Their rich coloration, gentle nature, and fascinating breeding habits offer a rewarding experience when kept in appropriate soft-water conditions.
Intermediate
10 gallons for a pair or 15+ gallons for a small g
4.0–6.5
1–5 dGH (very soft water)
75–80°F (24–27°C)
2 inches (5 cm)
Small, peaceful fish like Boraras, pygmy Corydoras, or other soft-water microfish. Best results in species-only tanks.
Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish, large tankmates, or strong water currents. Never keep with Betta splendens.
Betta channoides
Osphronemidae
Borneo (Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia)
Peaceful. Best kept in pairs or small harems in a species-only setup.
Needs high-protein diet. Live and frozen foods bring out best coloration and prepare them for breeding. Feed small amounts multiple times a day.
Mouthbrooder. Males incubate fertilized eggs in their mouth for 7–10 days. No bubble nests.
After courtship, the female releases eggs which the male fertilizes and collects in his mouth. He holds them for 7–10 days before releasing the fry. The male may hide and refrain from eating during this time. Fry require infusoria or baby brine shrimp.
Extremely soft, acidic water is essential. Blackwater conditions with leaf litter and minimal flow mimic their natural environment. Use Indian almond leaves or peat to lower pH and provide tannins.
Prone to bacterial and fungal infections if water quality is poor. Stress during mouthbrooding may lead to egg/fry loss. Sensitive to sudden water changes and overfiltration.
Can be territorial and aggressive towards other male Betta fish. Best kept alone or in a species-specific setup.
Calm and reclusive, thrives in densely planted tanks with hiding spots. Pairs form strong bonds. Males guard their space while brooding but rarely engage in fights.
With its bold colors and peaceful disposition, Betta channoides is a gem of the wild betta world. Though more delicate than domestic types, a carefully maintained blackwater setup will reward you with fascinating behaviors and possibly even successful breeding. A species-only tank with minimal disturbance and excellent water parameters is the key to success.