Betta Mustard Gas

Betta Mustard Gas 

Common Name

Mustard Gas Betta

Scientific Name

Betta splendens

Origin

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)
(Most Mustard Gas Bettas in the aquarium trade are captive-bred)

 

Appearance & Coloration

The Mustard Gas Betta is prized for its bold, high-contrast coloration. It typically features a deep blue or black body paired with bright yellow to mustard-colored fins, sometimes accented with iridescent highlights. This dramatic two-tone look makes it one of the most recognizable Betta color morphs.

 

Fin Type

Available in multiple fin types, most commonly Half Moon, Delta, or Veil Tail. Fin size and shape may vary depending on the individual fish.

 

Temperament

Semi-aggressive to aggressive.
Male Mustard Gas Bettas are territorial and should be housed alone. Females may be less aggressive but still display territorial tendencies.

 

Tank Size

Minimum 5 gallons recommended.
Larger tanks (10+ gallons) provide better stability and swimming space.

 

Tank Setup

• Heated freshwater aquarium

• Gentle filtration with minimal current

• Smooth décor and plants to prevent fin damage

• Live or silk plants preferred

Floating plants and resting areas near the surface are beneficial.

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Maintaining stable, warm water is essential for color retention and overall health.

 

Filtration & Flow

Low flow.
Strong currents can stress Bettas, especially long-finned varieties.

 

Diet

Carnivorous.

Feeding

• High-quality Betta pellets or granules

• Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Feed small portions 1–2 times daily
  Avoid overfeeding to prevent bloating and swim bladder issues.

 

Compatibility

• Best kept alone

• Can be housed with peaceful, non-fin-nipping species in larger aquariums

• Never house two male Bettas together

 

Health & Care Notes

• Susceptible to fin rot if water quality declines

• Regular water changes (25–30% weekly) recommended

• Monitor fins for tearing or discoloration

 

Care Level

Easy to Moderate

Suitable for beginners when proper tank setup and water stability are provided.

 

Signs of Good Health

• Strong color contrast

• Active swimming and curiosity

• Healthy, intact fins

• Strong feeding response

 

Signs of Stress or Illness

• Clamped or deteriorating fins

• Lethargy

• Loss of color

• Refusal to eat

 

Fun Fact 

The “Mustard Gas” name comes from the Betta’s striking color contrast—dark bodies with bright yellow fins—which resembles a dramatic paint-splashed effect rather than anything related to actual gas.