Imbellis Green Male Betta (Betta imbellis)

Imbellis Green Male Betta (Betta imbellis)

 

Scientific Name: Betta imbellis
Common Names: Peaceful Betta, Crescent Betta, Green Imbellis Betta
Family: Osphronemidae
Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)

 

Overview

The Imbellis Green Male Betta is a wild-type betta species known for its iridescent green and blue coloration, often highlighted with subtle red accents on the fins. Unlike the more aggressive domesticated Betta splendens, Betta imbellisis significantly more peaceful and can sometimes be kept in pairs or carefully managed community setups. Their natural look and calmer temperament make them highly desirable among aquarists seeking a more authentic and behaviorally interesting betta species.

 

Size

• Adult Size: 2–2.5 inches
• Growth Rate: Moderate

 

Lifespan

• Typically 3–5 years with proper care

 

Temperament

• Peaceful to mildly territorial
• Much less aggressive than Betta splendens
• Males may display to one another but are less prone to constant fighting
• Can be kept in pairs or species groups with proper space and setup

 

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (single or pair)
• Recommended: 15–20+ gallons for groups
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
• Aquascape: Heavily planted with leaf litter, driftwood, and hiding spaces
• Lid: Required (excellent jumpers)
• Filtration: Gentle flow preferred

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)
• Hardness: Soft to moderately soft
• Appreciates tannin-rich “blackwater” conditions

 

Diet

• Carnivorous
• Eats:
  • High-quality betta pellets
  • Frozen/live foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp)
• Requires protein-rich diet for optimal health

 

Feeding

• Feed 1–2 times daily
• Small portions; avoid overfeeding
• Live or frozen foods enhance coloration and natural behavior

 

Tank Mates

Compatible:

• Small peaceful fish (rasboras, small tetras)
• Corydoras catfish
• Peaceful shrimp (with caution)

 

Avoid:

• Aggressive or fin-nipping species
• Other betta males in confined spaces
• Large or highly active fish

 

Breeding

• Bubble nest builder
• Male constructs nest and guards eggs
• Pair should be conditioned before breeding
• Fry require infusoria and later baby brine shrimp

 

Care Level

• Moderate
• Suitable for hobbyists familiar with stable water conditions and natural-style setups

 

Special Notes

• More tolerant of tank mates compared to common bettas, but still requires monitoring
• Colors intensify under proper lighting and natural conditions
• Benefits from tannins (Indian almond leaves, driftwood)
• Less prone to extreme fin damage due to shorter, natural finnage