Named after Dr. Tussié, an ichthyologist from Venezuela. They have a slender body shape and can display vibrant colors.
Out of Stock
Named after Dr. Tussié, an ichthyologist from Venezuela. They have a slender body shape and can display vibrant colors.
Striking deep red to burgundy body with metallic blue/green iridescence on fins and scales. One of the most vividly colored wild bettas. Females are less vivid but still colorful.
2-3 years
Carnivorous; prefers high-quality Betta pellets or flakes, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods.
Betta tussyae is a dream species for dedicated aquarists who appreciate wild bettas. With its rare red coloration and mouthbrooding behavior, it offers a glimpse into the quiet beauty of natural aquatic ecosystems.
Intermediate to Advanced
10 gallons for a pair; 15+ gallons for a small gro
5.0–6.5
2–6 dGH (very soft water preferred)
74–78°F (23–26°C)
2 inches (5 cm)
Best with other peaceful, slow-moving species like Boraras, pygmy Corydoras. Ideal in species-only tanks to preserve behavior and health.
Avoid fin-nippers, large or fast fish, or aggressive species. Bright lights and strong flow are also stressful.
Betta tussyae
Osphronemidae
Southern Thailand (limited range)
Peaceful, especially in pairs. Males can be territorial during breeding. Best kept in species-only tanks.
Live and frozen foods are best. Feed a varied diet rich in protein, particularly when preparing for breeding. Avoid overfeeding as they can be prone to bloat.
Mouthbrooder. Males incubate fertilized eggs in their mouth for around 10–14 days before releasing free-swimming fry.
Courtship is subtle and beautiful. After spawning, the male takes eggs into his mouth for incubation. He may hide during this time and will not eat. After 10–14 days, fry are released. Fry should be fed infusoria or tiny live foods.
Requires soft, acidic water with lots of leaf litter and tannins. Blackwater conditions mimic their natural peat swamp habitat. Gentle filtration and regular small water changes are crucial.
Very sensitive to water changes and poor water quality. Watch for fungal infections, mouth damage in brooding males, and velvet disease. Stress from bright light or aggressive tankmates can cause health deterioration.
Can be territorial and aggressive towards other male Betta fish. Best kept alone or in a species-specific setup.
Gentle and timid. Prefers calm environments with dense plant cover and hiding spots. Minimal interaction with other fish, even during breeding. Rarely flares aggressively.
A critically endangered species in the wild, Betta tussyae thrives in well-maintained, soft water setups. It’s best suited for aquarists looking to keep and possibly breed wild bettas. Their peaceful nature, striking appearance, and rarity make them a living jewel in blackwater aquariums. Avoid aggressive tankmates and prioritize natural aquascapes for long-term success.