Betta picta

Betta picta is a small wild betta of about 5 cm that lives in streams, ditches and swamps of Java and Sumatra. Its brown body has dark horizontal stripes; the males' anal and caudal fins are edged with a bright turquoise band. The male carries the fertilized eggs in his mouth. Its adaptability to a wide range of water values and its tolerance of cool water make it one of the most suitable species for getting started with wild bettas.

• At least 40 liters for a pair; 80 liters for several pairs.
• 22–25°C, pH 6–7.5; a heater is often unnecessary.
• Hiding places made with plants, roots, rocks and dried leaves.
• Gentle flow and good oxygenation; a tight lid.

Carnivorous. It accepts small granules; supplement with frozen and live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia and mosquito larvae. Feed small amounts 1–2 times a day.

Calm and peaceful. Several pairs can live together in a large aquarium; males display, but serious fighting is rare. It may eat shrimplets.

Good companions: small fish suited to cool water: harlequin rasbora, pencilfish, kuhli loach, otocinclus, dwarf corydoras.

Avoid: fast, greedy schools, fin nippers, large gouramis, species that need warm water.