Our Guide To Keeping Betta Albimarginata Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Betta albimarginata
   • Common name: White-Seam Betta
   • Family: Osphronemidae
   • Origin: East Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo
   • Adult length: 4 to 5 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
   • Diet: Carnivore
   • Care Level: Moderate
   • Temperament: Peaceful to mildly territorial

2. Tank Setup:

   • Betta albimarginata is a small wild Betta that thrives in a quiet, heavily structured aquarium. A minimum tank size of around 40L is suitable for a pair, although a larger aquarium is recommended for a group.
   • Provide plenty of cover using driftwood, branches, caves and dense planting. Java Fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne and floating plants can be used to create shaded areas and help the fish feel secure.
   • A layer of dried Indian Almond leaves or other aquarium-safe leaf litter can help reproduce the species' natural environment while providing additional shelter and encouraging the growth of microorganisms.
   • Keep the aquarium securely covered. Like other Betta species, Betta albimarginata is an excellent jumper and should not have access to gaps around the lid.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Betta albimarginata prefers soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of approximately 5.5 to 7.0.
   • Keep the water temperature between 23 to 28°C (73 to 82°F).
   • Stable water conditions are more important than attempting to achieve an exact pH value. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, hardness or water chemistry.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Betta albimarginata prefers gentle water movement. A mature sponge filter or a filter with a carefully controlled outlet is ideal for providing biological filtration without producing a strong current.
   • Maintain excellent water quality with regular partial water changes, but avoid making large or sudden changes to the aquarium's water chemistry.

5. Diet:

   • Betta albimarginata is primarily carnivorous and naturally feeds on small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates. A varied diet is important for maintaining good health and colouration.
   • Offer appropriately sized live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, bloodworms and other small invertebrates.
   • Some individuals will accept high-quality Betta pellets or small carnivore granules, although prepared foods should ideally be supplemented with frozen or live foods.

6. Tank mates:

   • Betta albimarginata is generally more peaceful than many domesticated Betta splendens varieties, but its small size and specialised requirements mean it is often best maintained in a species-focused aquarium.
   • Suitable tank mates can include small, peaceful fish that tolerate similar soft-water conditions, although very active or aggressive species should be avoided.
   • A pair or small group can be maintained together when sufficient space, vegetation and hiding places are provided. Males may display towards one another, so visual barriers and multiple territories are beneficial.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Betta albimarginata is a relatively peaceful wild Betta known for the striking colouration displayed by mature males. Males develop red to reddish-brown bodies with contrasting dark markings and distinctive pale to white margins on the fins.
   • This species is a paternal mouthbrooder. After spawning, the male collects the fertilised eggs into his mouth and carries them while they develop, eventually releasing fully formed, free-swimming fry.
   • A mouthbrooding male should be disturbed as little as possible because stress may cause him to swallow or prematurely release the developing brood.
   • Although capable of breathing atmospheric air using its labyrinth organ, Betta albimarginata still requires clean, well-maintained and appropriately oxygenated aquarium water.