Spotfin Betta Brunei Beauty 7cm (1 Male & 1 Female)

Spotfin Betta Brunei Beauty

The spot fin betta is also known as betta macrostoma is regarded to be the pinnacle species to keep amongst betta fish enthusiasts. The rarity, colours, and sensitivity of this fish make it a dream fish for experienced aquarists and these are not an easy find in Australia. Betta macrostoma has an incredibly limited native range, only being found in the small country of Brunei and the northern tip of the Malaysian state of Sarawak. Due to causes like habitat loss and the pressure of the ornamental aquarium industry, these fish quickly became endangered. This led to the ban of exporting wild caught betta macrostoma from Brunei whilst the Sarawak population still has no present laws on their collection. As the captive breeding of this species is becoming more achievable by experienced hobbyists there is hope for the wild population to have a chance to recover.

The betta macrostoma falls under many names, the two most common being the spotfin betta and Brunei beauty. Both these names summarise the natural but striking colours of this fish perfectly. The betta macrostoma will reach around 10-11 cm with a long, torpedo-like body. They have a large, trap-jaw-like mouth and short fins unlike the more commonly recognized fancy betta varieties. Aside from the dwarf snakehead or Arowana-like aesthetic these fish sport the colours are also phenomenal. The base colour of this fish is a deep wine-red colour with gradients of brown, whites, and earthy green colours which are primarily around the head and belly. For added contrast, they sport a jet-black eyespot on their dorsal fin which earns them the name spotfin betta. This black can also be found on the bottom jaw, eye region, check plate, and fins as well. Both males and females in this species look stunning, especially during peak breeding times. All in all, this is a simply beautiful fish.

The spotfin betta is a species that really does need a dedicated aquarium setting. A lot of care must be taken with compatibility, environment, and aquarium size, which is why this fish is best left to well-experienced aquarists. Through captive breeding of this species does require a lot of dedication, it can be done. Achieving this is not only an amazing feat but also helps out this endangered species immensely more captive-bred species can be spread through the hobby instead of wild-caught fish. Males just like many other betta species tend to be more brightly coloured whereas females are much darker with two dark stripes running horizontally from head to tail. Betta macrostoma is a mouth-brooding species, the male will incubate fertilized eggs for around one month before releasing fully formed fry which can then be separated and grown out. 

Tank Recommendations for your Spotfin Betta

The aquarium conditions are easily the most important factor to nail prior to getting a pair of these fish. As these fish reach around 11 cm long and display mild territorial behavior it is best to have a minimum aquarium volume of 75 L (60cm long, 30cm wide, and 30cm tall aquarium). However, going larger than this is also recommended. Not all males and females will become a confirmed pair which is why they often do need to be in a small group first prior to naturally pairing off. This hard and expensive work has been completed by the LiveFish team as the fish seen in these pictures have naturally paired. 

The aquarium environment of the betta macrostoma is quite important, both parameter-wise and scape-wise. These fish require acidic water with the recommended PH range being between 4.0-5.5. This level of acidity can be achieved through their aquascape by utilizing botanicals and driftwood that can leach tannins into the water. This can also be stabilized by using PH conditioners or direct black water extracts. The spotfin betta comes from slow-moving waters that are rich in vegetation and botanical materials in the water which will be ideal to replicate. Having low-light tolerant plants like java moss can provide some added coverage for these potentially shy fish. Temperature wise these fish can be kept on the cooler side with the ideal range being between 20-25 degrees. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

Ideally it is best to keep this fish in a species only environment even though they are relatively peaceful fish. The main issue in terms of compatibility is that the betta macrostoma has very specific aquarium conditions which other aquarium species may not tolerate. They can also be easily stressed by large or active tank mates.

Usually Compatible

Sarawak rasboras, chilli Raspboras, common pencil fish, neon tetras and similar small, peaceful species. Even with these fish however there is a slight risk of predation.

Sometimes Compatible

Potentially large but inconspicuous fish like bristlenose pleco or corydoras however this is a risk that can be entirely avoided. 

Rarely Compatible

Any fish species that is larger than the betta macrostoma, peaceful or not these should be totally avoided. There is just too high a risk for the betta to be outcompeted or stressed. 

Feeding your Spotfin Betta

Spotfin betta can be incredibly shy when first introduced into the aquarium. Because of this there should a range of foods ready to go in order to entice them to eat. This however is a species that may not easily or ever take to prepared aquarium foods like pellets during its near 10-year lifespan.

Because of this there may need to be a regular supply of live foods like baby brine shrimp, daphnia, black worms, shrimp, worms or similar invertebrate species. They can be weaned onto frozen foods and potentially freeze-dried foods. Giving them a nutritional and varied diet is best for optimal health.