⁠Betta Mahachaiensis

Scientific Name: Betta mahachaiensis
Common Name: Mahachai Betta, Mahachai Fighter
Family: Osphronemidae
Origin: Coastal regions of central Thailand (Samut Sakhon, Bangkok, Samut Songkhram, Samut Prakan)
Size: 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches)
Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

Behavior: Shy, less aggressive than Betta splendens, but males can be territorial, especially during breeding. Known for building bubble nests in plant bracts or foliage.
Conservation Status: Endangered in the wild due to habitat destruction and over-collection.

Tank Size:
Single fish: Minimum 5 gallons, though 10 gallons is ideal for stability and enrichment.
Pair (male-female): 10–20 gallons to reduce territorial disputes.
Mixed-sex groups: 30+ gallons with ample hiding spots.

Substrate: Fine gravel or silica sand, with Indian almond leaves or leaf litter to mimic natural tannins and reduce stress.

Plants: Use brackish-tolerant plants like Java fern, Anubias, or Cryptocoryne wendtii (pairing well with your store’s offerings). Floating plants (e.g., duckweed) provide shade and nesting sites.

Decor: Include caves, driftwood, and Nipa palm-like structures for hiding and bubble nest support. Dense foliage mimics their natural habitat among Nipa palms.

Water Level: Keep low (not filled to the top) to allow access to surface air, as they are labyrinth fish.
Lid: Essential, as Betta mahachaiensis are excellent jumpers.

Avoid strong currents, as they thrive in stagnant or slow-moving waters.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Filtration: Gentle sponge filter or low-flow internal filter to avoid stressing the fish.
Lighting: Low to moderate; they prefer shaded environments to reduce stress.

Diet: Carnivorous; prefers live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, or mosquito larvae.

High-quality betta pellets or flakes can be accepted after acclimation, but live/frozen foods ensure optimal color and health.
Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, removing uneaten food within 2 minutes to prevent water fouling. Fast once a week to avoid obesity.

Tankmates:
Avoid aggressive fish, fin-nippers, or species with long fins. Do not house multiple males unless in a 30+ gallon tank with heavy planting.