Betta Channoides Pair (Betta channoides)

Also known as the Snakehead Betta, this small wild mouthbrooding betta comes from the Mahakam River basin in East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia. It lives in shallow, brown, acidic forest streams among leaf litter and the roots of marginal plants. It is classed as Endangered because its range is so small and wild collection adds pressure. It is rare in the hobby, and keepers prize it for its adult colouration. This listing is for a male and female pair.

This species needs soft, acidic, tannin-stained water and a calm, dimly lit setup. It is not a community fish. We recommend a dedicated species tank with leaf litter, driftwood, dense planting and floating plants, a gentle sponge filter, and a tight-fitting lid, as with all bettas.

Care

• Origin: Indonesia

• Fish size: up to 5cm

• Tank size: 40 litres minimum for a pair

• Temperature: 23-29℃

• pH: 4.0-6.5

• Water Flow: Low

• Temperament: peaceful but shy, species-only tank recommended

• Diet: carnivorous, small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworm and daphnia

Breeding

Paternal mouthbrooder. The male holds the eggs in his mouth, and the incubation time varies with temperature. We recommend a separate breeding tank with the tightest-fitting cover possible, as the fry need a layer of warm, humid air for the labyrinth organ to develop properly. Raising the temperature towards 26-28℃ and lowering the pH can help encourage spawning.