In The Wild
Date Classified:
1909
Native Location:
Borneo
Environment:
Waterfall pools and rivers
Food:
Fruit flies, insects, mosquito larvae
Water and Hardness:
Soft to moderate hardness – 10
Water Temperature:
74-79 degrees Fahrenheit
Water pH:
5.8-7.5
In Aquaria:
Physical Appearance:
- Male – orange-brown
- Male – black face/head with wide orange band
- Female – Lighter orange-brown
- Female – lacks the black face/head and red marks
- Female – two black stripes on body
Finnage:
- Male – pectoral fins have black rays
- Male – anal fin has black margin edged in lighter color
- Male – dorsal fin has black spots with white margins
- Male – caudal fin has white margins and wide black submargins
- Wild males are brighter red
- Female – darker margin on caudal fin
Size:
5 inches in length
Feeding in Captivity:
Live foods are best. Will eat frozen adult brine shrimp and frozen bloodworms.
Water and Hardness:
Demands highly oxygenated, extremely clean, soft water
Water Temperature:
At least 75 degrees at all times
Water pH:
5.8-7.5
Breeding:
This fish requires a covered tank because it is known as a jumper. The tank should be darkened and include RO or rainwater. Siphon bottom of tank regularly and change water frequently. Plant and float abundant vegetation and supply this fish with four-inch lengths of three-inch PVC pipe or flowerpot caves. Betta macrostoma are difficult to breed.