Betta Imbellis (Betta imbellis)
Also known as the Peaceful Betta or Crescent Betta, this wild species is quite different from the domesticated Betta splendens sold as pets. As its name suggests, it's the most non-confrontational of all betta species, and unlike Betta splendens, males can often be kept together or alongside a female without the same level of aggression, given adequate space.
It's native to Malaysia, southern Thailand, Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia, where it inhabits slow-moving, densely vegetated waters such as swamps, rice paddies and shaded streams with a soft, leaf-littered substrate.
Males display a dark body with red, blue or turquoise iridescence through the fins, and a crescent-shaped tail rather than the elaborate finnage of selectively bred Betta splendens varieties. Males also become territorial towards one another during breeding season.
We recommend a gentle filter or sponge filter, as these fish come from calm, low-flow waters and dislike strong current. Indian almond leaf is also recommended to help replicate the soft, tannin-stained water of their natural habitat, and a tight-fitting lid, as they are capable jumpers.
Care
Origin: Indonesia
Fish size: 5-6cm
Tank size: 40 litres (10 US gallons) minimum for a pair
Temperature: 24-28℃
pH: 6.0-7.5
Water Flow: Low
Diet: omnivorous — high grade betta pellet, live or frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, with occasional vegetable matter
We recommend catappa leaf as a natural botanical that provides tannins, cover and leaf-litter habitat, helping to create a more natural environment for your fish. Research also suggests possible additional health benefits.
Imbelis Male #1
Betta Care
For full care information, see our Betta Care Guide and Guide to Tank Cycling.(Both open in new tabs)
Quick guide
Tank: A 25–30 litre or larger aquarium with a secure lid. Larger volumes are easier to keep stable and provide more room to swim and explore.
Temperature: Keep the water stable at 24–27°C.
Water Quality: The aquarium must be fully cycled. Ammonia and nitrite should read 0 ppm, with nitrate preferably below 20 ppm. Aim for a stable pH around 6.5–7.5 rather than repeatedly adjusting it.
Environment: Provide gentle filtration, plants, smooth shelter and resting places, with clear access to the water surface.
Feeding: Offer small amounts of an appropriate Betta diet and remove uneaten food promptly. Avoid overfeeding.
Maintenance: Change around 25–30% of the water weekly, using dechlorinated water brought reasonably close to the aquarium temperature.
Compatibility: Keep no more than one male Betta in an undivided aquarium. Choose any tank mates carefully for the aquarium size and the individual fish, and be prepared to separate them if problems develop.
Lifespan: Typically around 3–5 years, although this varies.
Avoid bowls: Bettas need a properly heated, filtered and suitably furnished aquarium.
