Peaceful Betta
Betta imbellis
About
The peaceful betta—also called the crescent betta—is a wild-type labyrinth fish from parts of Thailand and peninsular Malaysia. It is closely related to Betta splendens but is generally less extreme in aggression: males are still territorial, yet pairs or small groups are sometimes kept by experienced keepers in large, heavily planted aquaria with many sight breaks. Body form is more compact, with rounded caudal colour bands in healthy males. Like other bettas they breathe at the surface and build bubble nests for breeding. Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water and stable conditions suit them; avoid boisterous or fin-nipping tankmates.
Feeding & Diet
Small pellets or granules; frozen or live bloodworm, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp; variety supports condition and colour.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
Feed modestly; wild-type bettas can become overweight on rich food alone.
Habitat
Native Region: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia—peat swamps, slow streams, rice paddies)
Shallow, warm, often tannin-stained water with vegetation and leaf litter.
Heavily planted tank, gentle or no flow, leaf litter or driftwood optional; lid and line-of-sight breaks reduce aggression.
Behavior
Activity Level: Moderate
Less aggressive than Betta splendens but males still spar; do not house two males in small tanks; choose tankmates with care.
Breeding
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Bubble nest
Sexual Dimorphism: Males more colourful with extended fins; females shorter-finned, plainer, often rounder-bodied.
Bubble-nesting species; soft, warm water; dense plants; monitor pair for aggression; remove female if needed after spawning.
Tank Setup
Substrate: Either
Plant Safe: Yes
Smooth-edged wood and plants; avoid sharp decor that could damage fins.
Your tanks
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Care Requirements
Similar Betta Fish
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