Betta Spilotogena

Datasheet

General Description

The Betta Spilotogena, belonging to the Betta waseri group, is characterized by a clay yellow body coloration, iridescent gold opercle scales in mature males, and a throat with black markings. This species is a member of the Osphronemidae family and possesses a labyrinth organ for breathing atmospheric air. They are typically found in freshwater swamps and streams, adapting to various ecological niches, including acidic peat swamp forests. With almost 70 recognized members in the genus Betta, these fish continue to be described regularly.

Aquarium Setup

Maintaining Betta Spilotogena in a decorated aquarium with driftwood, roots, and branches can provide essential shelter. Substrate-free tanks are preferred by many breeders for ease of maintenance. Adding dried leaf litter, such as beech, oak, or Ketapang almond leaves, offers natural aesthetics and creates microbe colonies beneficial as a food source. Dim lighting, Asian plant species like Microsorum pteropus or Cryptocoryne spp., and floating vegetation are recommended. Moderately strong filtration using an air-powered sponge filter is suitable, ensuring the tank is well-covered and not filled to the top to provide access to the layer of humid air required by Betta Spilotogena.

Behaviour

Betta Spilotogena is best kept alone or with very peaceful species due to its disposition. Peaceful small cyprinids and loaches can be compatible tank mates. They can be maintained in pairs or groups, exhibiting intriguing behavioral interactions in group settings.

Feeding and Diet

In nature, Betta Spilotogena feeds on insects and small invertebrates. Captive individuals readily accept dried foods but benefit from regular offerings of small live or frozen foods such as Daphnia, Artemia, or bloodworms for optimal health. Feeding small insects like crickets or Drosophila fruit flies after filling them with fish flakes or vegetables is advisable, with care taken not to overfeed to prevent obesity.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

As a paternal mouthbrooder, Betta Spilotogena requires a separate breeding tank with a tight-fitting lid to ensure fry access to warm, humid air critical for labyrinth organ development. Courtship involves a unique embrace, with fertilized eggs caught by the male for incubation. Fry, released after 10-21 days, should be fed motile foods like microworms and Artemia nauplii. Adult males exhibit more vibrant colors, extended fins, and broader head shapes compared to females.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in freshwater swamps and shaded streams with clear to lightly stained tannin-rich water, Betta Spilotogena inhabits Bintan and Singkep Islands in Indonesia. They coexist with related species such as Betta edithae and B. fusca in waters less than a meter deep, with a measured pH range of 4.9-5.5.