Overview

The peaceful or crescent betta is a small Southeast Asian labyrinth fish, reaching about 5–6cm. It is a different species from ornamental Betta splendens.

Scientific name: Betta imbellis

Behaviour

The name peaceful does not mean males cannot fight. Start with a single fish, or an identified compatible pair with abundant cover; do not place two unsexed fish together without a separation plan.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 45 litres with a 45 × 30cm base for one fish or a compatible pair. Larger groups require a much larger, densely planted aquarium with separate territories.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Best in a quiet dedicated setup. Small calm rasboras can be considered in a larger aquarium with matching water. Avoid boisterous fish, other betta species and fin-nippers.

Diet

Offer small complete pellets if accepted, alongside frequent small frozen or live daphnia, brine shrimp and other suitable invertebrate foods. Check shy individuals actually eat.

Care

• Temperature: 24–27°C
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• General hardness: 1–10 dGH

Use gentle filtration, floating plants and dense shelter. Fit a secure lid with humid air space and leave clear access to the surface. Remove a persistently chased fish promptly. Maintain soft to moderately soft water without abrupt chemistry changes.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.