We all know plenty about the domestically bred betta fish, generally of the betta splendens breed of betta fish. However, there are over 73 other varieties of wild betta fish for you to see. We will discuss some of the most splendid wild betta types you may consider keeping.
Therefore, most of the domestically bred betta fish are of the betta splendens breed, which makes them the most common betta type in the market. However, other than betta splendens, you may also look for other wild betta types to nurture. We list our top 5 picks for wild bettas to add to your tank. There are over 73 different wild betta types, each unique feature.
Wild Betta Types: Best Choices
As stated earlier, about 73 different wild betta types are available in the market. Some are rare, while some are relatively more common. Thus, there is a vast number of choices at your disposal. Depending on the outward appearance and scope of availability, here are some of the best options among the wild betta types.
Betta Hendra
Origin
Betta Hendra comes from the shallow and small pools of the southern parts of Kalimantan, Borneo, in the Sebangau drainage.
Appearance
Betta Hendra is one of the most beautiful wild betta types with its pure darkened blue or green pigmentation. They also show two red markings near the cheeks and can only grow up to 1.6 inches in length. They are bubble nesters by nature.
Tank Environment
- At least 5 gallons for a single hendra and 12 gallons for a pair
- Add almonds leaves to lower the pH to about 5-6
- Tank decors like plants and wide tubes recommended
- Water temperature between 75 degrees and 84 degrees F
Temperament
Betta hendras have got a bit of bad temperament. Therefore, it is usually advised to keep them alone. However, you may stay small bottom-dwellers like corydoras with the hendras as long as the tank is big enough.
Price
$30 to $55 depending on coloration and other factors.
Betta Macrostoma
Origin
Betta macrostoma can be found in the leaf-littered and small streams of Malaysia, Brunei.
Appearance
Betta macrostoma shows bright coloration, and what makes it even more unique is its abnormally largemouth. Thus, not surprisingly, they are mouthbrooders. Male macrostomas show more brilliant coloration as compared to females. They can grow up to 3.5 inches in length.
Tank Environment
- At least 20 gallons to keep a pair
- Slow water current
- Water temperature between 75 and 79 degrees F
- Water pH to be maintained within 6-7
- Addtion of plants recommended
Temperament
Betta macrostoma can live in pairs as long as the tank is big enough. Betta harems can also be maintained in a bigger tank.
Price
One betta macrostoma can cost you anything between $75 and $100.
Betta Imbellis
Origin
Betta imbellis originate from the southern regions of Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Appearance
Betta imbellis usually shows green coloration over the body with a red elliptical pattern on the caudal fins. Moreover, its dorsal fins show red pigmentation. They can grow about 2.4 inches in length. Additionally, they are bubble nesters by nature.
Tank Environment
- At least 5 gallons for a single fish
- Water pH ranging between 6 and 7
- Water temperature between 70 and 82 degrees F
- Change water periodically
- Addition of live plants advisable
Temperament
Betta imbellis is quite aggressive. Thus, they should not be kept in pairs unless the tank is at least 20 gallons. A pair should only be kept together for breeding purposes.
Price
Depending on the coloration, betta imbellis can cost you anything between $10 and $60.
Betta Pallifina
Origin
Betta pallifina can be found in the small ponds of upper Barito in Kalimantan, Borneo.
Appearance
Betta pallifina shows attractive bluish-green coloration on the body and the fins. It can grow up to 4 inches in length and has a large mouth, just like a betta macrostoma. They are mouthbrooders by nature.
Tank Environment
- At least 30 gallons for a pair and 60 gallons for a group
- Provide cover for the fish by adding plants and driftwood
- Water temperature ranging between 77 and 79 degrees F
- Water pH level within 6.6 and 7.4
- Length of the tank should be preferred over height
Temperament
Betta pallifina are naturally quite aggressive and territorial. However, they can be kept in pairs or groups depending on the tank size. You may also add other fish like corydoras, tetras, and kuhli loaches with your pallifina.
Price
Betta pallifina can cost you about $70 to $90.
Betta Coccina
Origin
Betta coccina comes from the small streams of Sumatra, Malaysia, with high organic content in the water.
Appearance
Betta coccina exhibits a deep red wine coloration all over the body, along with a bluish-green spot in the middle of the body. This makes them one of the most attractive among the wild betta types. The coloration may vary from betta to betta. They can grow up to 2 to 2.5 inches in length. They are bubble nesters by nature.
Tank Environment
- At least 12 gallons for a pair and more than 15 gallons for a group
- Lowered water pH of about 6 should be maintained
- Water temperature between 75 degrees and 80 degrees F
- Provide hiding spots to the betta by adding plants and other decors
- Conduct periodical water changes or install a proper filter
Temperament
Betta coccina is relatively aggressive. Although moderately aggressive, these bettas can be kept in pairs and groups as long as the tank is big enough to hold them.
Price
Betta coccina can cost you about $10 to $20.
FAQs On Wild Betta Types
Are wild bettas rare?
Some breeds of wild bettas are relatively rarer than other wild bettas. For instance, the betta macrostoma is quite rare.
Can wild bettas types be kept together?
You can keep wild bettas together in pairs or groups as long as the tank is big enough to hold them.
How high can wild bettas jump?
A betta fish can jump about 2 to 3 inches on an average out of the water. Thus, it would help if you always kept the lid on your tank to prevent your betta fish from jumping out of the tank.
How to tell what kind of betta fish I have?
One can distinguish between the male and the female wild betta types by looking at the colors. Male ones are more colorful than female ones. One can also differentiate between bettas based on their tails.
Final Thoughts
Thus, there are various choices to choose from among the wild betta types. We have prepared a list of our best picks among these wild betta types that you may keep in your tank. Each betta is unique in its way, and they certainly are a treat to watch.
