Betta unimaculata

Betta unimaculata is one of the largest mouthbrooding bettas; it reaches 12 cm. With its long, cylindrical body and broad head it resembles a snakehead. The males' gill covers and flanks are decorated with shiny turquoise-green scales. Its Latin name means "one-spotted" and refers to a dark spot that is visible especially in juveniles. It is a powerful predator living in the fast-flowing forest streams of Borneo.

• At least 120 liters for a pair, with a length of 100 cm or more.
• 23–26°C, pH 6–7.5, soft to moderately hard water.
• Rocks, roots and hiding places; moderate flow and good oxygenation.
• It is a master escape artist and jumper; leave no gaps in the lid.

Carnivorous and greedy. Give frozen shrimp, bloodworms, mussels, mosquito larvae and meat-based granules. Feed in moderation once a day.

Territorial toward males of its own species. It hunts fish and shrimp that fit in its mouth; it can be kept with robust fish close to its own size.

Good companions: medium to large calm barbs, large rasboras, robust bottom dwellers, large corydoras species.

Avoid: small fish and shrimp, slow long-finned species, aggressive cichlids.