Lifespan of Fighter fish

Scientific name: Betta imbellis

Common name: Peaceful betta

Family: Osphronemidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 6 - 7 cm (2.36 - 2.76 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 20°N (107.14 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 29 °C (75.2 - 84.2°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: East Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Food and feeding

Although Peaceful bettas will accept flake or small granules, they much prefer live or frozen foods as the bulk of their diet. Feed them with daphnia, mysis, blood worms and brine shrimp. Always try to vary each meal.

Origin

Asia; Peaceful bettas are to be found in Malaysia.

Sexing

Males will display a much brighter colouration than the females; these tend to be a browner colour. The males may also possess extended fins.

Breeding

The male will build a bubble nest at the surface of the water and invite the female in to lay her eggs. After spawning is complete, the female should be removed as the male will protect the nest and offspring. When the fry are free swimming, they can be fed on Infusoria and a week later, they should be ready to feed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Betta imbellis is 4 years.

Short description

Water parameters are not as important with Betta imbellis as the quality of the water. They require excellent filtration combined with regular water changes. Add long stemmed plants to the tank and supply some hiding places by using rocks or wood.