Besides Betta splendens, Betta imbellis is one of the most popular betta species. Their dark bodies, iridescent spots, and vibrant red fins are desirable.
Their popularity also stems from their peaceful temperaments compared to other betta species. They have aggressive tendencies, though they occur less often. They get along with members of their species and other community fish better.
Between their gentler personalities and bright colors, Betta imbellis are an excellent option. They are a go-to option for many hobbyists searching for a wild-type betta.
About The Peaceful Betta
Betta imbellis is known as the “peaceful” betta. It is the most non-confrontation of all the betta fish species. They sometimes go by the name “crescent betta” for their crescent-shaped tail fins.
- Common Names: peaceful betta, crescent betta
- Origins: Malaysia, Thailand, Sumatra
- Care Level: Easy
- Size: 2-2.4 in (5-6 cm)
- Aquarium Size: 5+ gallons (single), 15+ gallons (pair)
- Temperament: Semi-peaceful
- Swimming Level: Middle to Top
- Water Temperature: 68-82.4°F (20-28°C)
- pH: 5.0-7.5
Range & Habitat
These bettas are native to Malaysia, southern Thailand, and northern Sumatra. Their wild habitat now spans as far as Singapore due to owners releasing unwanted pets.
Betta imbellis live in slow-moving, shallow waters. Water bodies include rice paddies, streams, ponds, and swamps. Their watery habitats comprise ample vegetation that offers shade with little oxygen. The substrate of their habitat varies and may include leaf litter, mud, or sand.
These fish are fairly hardy since they must adjust to quickly changing conditions. Their habitats during the rainy season are different than during the dry season.
Behavior
Betta imbellis are far more peaceful than other bettas. They do well in community tanks with other peaceful fish and can even live with other Betta imbellis. Many hobbyists keep their crescent bettas in pairs in a 15-gallon tank.
It’s important to note that these bettas can still be aggressive toward each other. Aggression can never be completely bred out of bettas.
Appearance
Betta imbellis are small fish, about the same size as many other betta species. They usually grow between 2-2.4 in (5-6 cm) long.
Their dark red, almost black bodies have iridescent spots of green or blue. Their fins are bright red with the same iridescent green or blue streaks.
Betta imbellis’ bodies are long and slender with short fins. The caudal fin spreads out in a wide fan. The red color on the tail fin looks like a crescent moon. The dorsal fin is a similar fan shape, though it’s smaller. The anal fin is long and short and comes to a point at the back.
“True” Wild VS Captive-Bred Betta imbellis
The popularity of Betta imbellis has led to the breeding of their species in captivity. Like Betta splendens, Betta imbellis has been selectively bred for more vibrant colors. Those in captivity have an array of colors not seen in wild bettas.
Some breeders have bred Betta imbellis for aggression. They use them for fighting competitions as they do with Betta splendens. Betta splendens remain far more aggressive than Betta imbellis and are more popular.
Betta imbellis VS Betta splendens
Betta imbellis and Betta splendens are similar, as they are in the same complex. A betta complex is a group of related species with similar physical appearances. Betta imbellis are in the Betta splendens complex.
The most obvious difference between Betta imbellis and Betta splendens is their temperament. Betta splendens are highly aggressive and cannot live with other bettas. Betta imbellis can live with other members of their species as long as there is enough space.
Their appearance is somewhat different. Their bodies have the same shape, though Betta splendens have longer, flowier fins. Selective breeding has given Betta splendens their long, graceful fins. Betta imbellis have shorter fins.
The genetic purity of Betta imbellis is lowering every year. Irresponsible owners introduce feral, selectively-bred species to Betta imbellis’ range. These other species breed with Betta imbellis, producing offspring of mixed genetics.
Betta imbellis Care
Betta imbellis are relatives of Betta splendens, meaning they have similar care requirements. There are a few differences that are important to note before setting up a home for a crescent betta.
Tank Size
A 5-gallon tank is the smallest size suitable for a single crescent betta. Keep a tank of at least 15 gallons for a pair of these bettas.
Don’t fill the tank all the way to the top. Keep the water line a few inches below the lip of the tank. The extra space makes it easier for bettas to get air.
Use A Lid
Always cover tanks with a lid. Bettas, especially wild ones, are excellent jumpers.
Their ability comes from their natural habits in the wild. During the dry season, their habitats lose water. Many bettas find themselves in small, inhospitable puddles. They will jump from puddle to puddle in search of larger water bodies.
Lighting
In the wild, lush vegetation dims the lighting. Too much bright light causes stress. Hobbyists should try replicating the bettas’ naturally shady environment.
While plants can help with shade, choose a dim light. Many lights are adjustable, making it easy for hobbyists to set the lighting how they like.
Water Conditions & Temperature
Betta imbellis can tolerate temperatures between 68-82.4°F (20-28°C). They usually prefer temperatures somewhere in the middle, about 75-77°F (23.9-25°C).
Betta imbellis prefer acidic to neutral water, between 5.0 and 7.5. They also like slightly to moderately hard water between 5-10 dGH.
Other water parameters should look like the following:
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrites: 0 ppm
- Nitrates: <40 ppm
Use a reliable water testing kit, like API’s Master Test Kit, to ensure the tank’s water stays within a safe range.
Filter
A filter is necessary to maintain the health of the aquarium and the betta. The water will become dirty and toxic more quickly without a filter.
We recommend using a sponge filter for all betta species. Sponge filters create less current and are usually adjustable. They are ideal for bettas who are weak swimmers.
Filters offer mechanical and biological filtration. Mechanically, they pull large waste from the water. Biologically, the sponge becomes home to beneficial bacteria that neutralizes ammonia and nitrites.
Some filters have chemical filtration. They aid in removing toxins from the water. Chemical filtration is less common in the sponge filters most betta owners use.
Heater
As a tropical species that prefers warmer temperatures, most bettas need a heater. A few exceptions exist, such as with hobbyists living in tropical regions. Those living in colder and more unstable areas need a heater.
Not only do heaters keep the water warm, they also keep it stable. Fish don’t do well with fluctuating temperatures.
We prefer fully submersible heaters as they are easy to hide behind decorations. Check heaters regularly for damage and to ensure they are working. Malfunctions don’t happen often, though they can devastate tanks. Using a thermometer, and checking it often, can save fish if a malfunction does happen.
Decorations
Like most bettas, Betta imbellis like lots of vegetation to feel secure. It’s best to provide them with live plants to mimic their natural habitat and help with the water’s health.
Choose a variety of short, tall, and floating plants to make up their habitat. Shorter plants offer resting places. Tall plants offer areas to hide and explore. Floating plants are great for neutralizing toxins and offering shade.
Fake silk plants are an okay option for those not wishing to deal with live plants. Avoid hard plastic plants when choosing fake decorations. The plastic has sharp edges that can easily tear bettas’ delicate fins.
We highly recommend choosing live plants for wild betta species. They better mimic their natural habitat.
Driftwood
Driftwood creates a natural-looking environment and places to explore. The tannins in the wood leach into the water. They create a dark, blackwater environment like the bettas’ natural waters. The tannins help to lower the pH, making it slightly acidic as the bettas like. The tannins also contain natural healing properties that help the fish remain healthy.
Indian Almond Leaves
Likewise, Indian almond leaves act like driftwood. They release tannins into the water that help with the pH of the water and the health of the betta(s). As they sink to the tank floor, they create leaf litter that acts as a good hiding spot.
Rocks & Caves
Select smooth-edged rocks and caves for the bettas to hide inside. Plastic piping, clay pots, smooth river stones, and smooth fake decorations work well.
Feeding
Bettas are carnivores that need a high-protein diet to remain healthy. They eat small insects, crustaceans, and insect larvae in the wild.
Bettas should get a variety of foods for well-rounded nutrition and to aid digestion. Their staple diet should comprise betta pellets or flakes. Give them freeze-dried, frozen, or live snacks a few times a week. Some of their favorite foods include daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Today, captive-bred crescents bettas are most widely available for pet owners. They shouldn’t have trouble accepting pellets, flakes, or freeze-dried food. Those captured from the wild may not accept artificial foods immediately. Start by offering them live and frozen food before slowly adding processed foods.
Tank Mates
Crescent bettas are the best species for anyone wishing to have a community tank with a betta. Their gentler nature ensures they get along with most peaceful freshwater fish. They can even live together in pairs and small groups.
Remember, “peaceful” bettas get their name because they are more tolerant of others. They are not completely peaceful toward other Betta imbellis. They are territorial and will fight if there’s not enough space.
While a single Betta imbellis can live in a 5-gallon tank, at least 15 gallons is necessary for a pair. An even larger tank is essential for sororities, harems, or community tanks.
Pairs should always comprise a male and a female, as two males will attack one another.
Small groups may include only females in what we call a “sorority.” Hobbyists can also keep a “harem” of one male and several females.
A large tank and ample decorations are vital for keeping several Betta imbellis. They must be able to get away from one another to prevent fighting.
Always keep an eye on the pair or group for excess aggression. Expect occasional flaring — it’s not cause for much concern. Separate a betta that constantly flares or attacks its tank mates.
Breeding
The actual process of breeding betta fish is not difficult. With a little research, hobbyists can learn what they need to do to safely breed their bettas.
The most complicated part of breeding Betta imbillis is understanding their genetics. For example, hobbyists should never breed members of the same betta complex. Doing so often results in hybridizations that are not good for the offspring’s health.
Of course, two Betta imbellis can breed. Conversely, a Betta imbellis and Betta splendens should not mate.
FAQs
Where Can You Buy A Betta imbellis?
Anyone looking to buy a Betta imbellis should look for reputable breeders. Hobbyists can go to local breeders or find them online.
Betta imbellis are nearly non-existent in pet stores as they are uncommon pets. Most beginning betta hobbyists buy Betta splendens, and that’s what pet stores stock.
How Much Do Betta Imbellis Cost?
Depending on age and color, betta imbellis may cost between $10 and $75. They tend to be more expensive than Betta splendens since they aren’t as common.
