🐟 Wild Betta Imbellis Copper Male

🔹 Overview

The Betta imbellis, commonly known as the Peaceful Betta, is a wild species closely related to the domestic Betta splendens (Siamese fighting fish).
The Copper Male variant is a selectively bred or naturally metallic form that displays a shimmering coppery-bronze or metallic green sheen, while retaining the graceful shape and calmer temperament of wild bettas.

This species originates from Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, where it inhabits slow-moving streams, rice paddies, and shaded swamp waters.

🔹 Key Physical Traits

1. Body Shape and Size

   • Sleek, elongated body typical of wild bettas.

   • Males reach 6–7 cm (2.5–3 inches) in length.

   • Fins are shorter and less extravagant than Betta splendens, giving a more natural look.

2. Coloration (Copper Variant)

   • Shimmering copper, bronze, or metallic green highlights over a dark base body.

   • Iridescence changes under different lighting angles.

   • Fins often show turquoise, green, or red streaks with dark edging.

   • Males are more vivid and reflective compared to females.

3. Fins

   • Rounded, flowing but not overdeveloped.

   • Caudal (tail) fin forms a slight semicircle.

   • Dorsal and anal fins show metallic stripes and red accents.

4. Sexual Dimorphism

   • Males: More colourful, longer fins, brighter copper tone.

   • Females: Shorter fins, less colour, paler overall body.

🔹 Behaviour and Personality

• Temperament: Peaceful compared to Betta splendens; males can coexist in groups under proper space and hiding options.

• Activity: Calm, deliberate swimmers.

• Social Nature: Can be kept in pairs or small groups (with caution).

• Intelligence: Recognizes owners and responds to movement.

• Display Behaviour: Males will flare gently at rivals but rarely fight to the death.

🔹 Natural Habitat

• Found in shallow, slow-moving waters such as forest streams, ponds, and rice paddies.

• Prefers shaded areas with leaf litter, roots, and dense aquatic plants.

• Water is typically soft, acidic, and tannin-rich (tea-colored from decaying leaves).

🔹 Tank Setup and Environment

Tip: Add Indian almond leaves or dried catappa leaves to create natural tannins that simulate their native environment. This improves health and coloration.

🔹 Feeding and Diet

• Type: Carnivorous, micropredator.

• Diet in the Wild: Small insects, larvae, and crustaceans.

• In Captivity:

  • High-protein betta pellets or micro-pellets.

  • Live or frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, daphnia.

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 small meals per day.

• Avoid: Overfeeding; they eat slowly and can bloat easily.

🔹 Health and Maintenance

Common Issues:

1. Fin Rot: Rare in clean water; maintain stability.

2. Fungal or Bacterial Infections: Usually stress-related; keep water soft and slightly acidic.

3. Bloating: From overfeeding or low-quality food.

4. Color Loss: Caused by bright lighting or stress — use subdued light and natural decor.

Maintenance Tips:

• Change 20–30% of water weekly.

• Keep consistent temperature and pH.

• Avoid sudden movements or aggressive tank mates.

• Observe their social behaviour — slight flaring is natural, prolonged chasing isn’t.

🔹 Compatibility

• Ideal Setup:

  • Pair (male + female) or small group of 1 male with 2–3 females.

  • In large, heavily planted tanks, multiple males may coexist with minimal aggression.

• Tank Mates:

  • Peaceful, small species such as rasboras, small tetras, or Corydoras.

  • Snails and shrimp also suitable.

• Avoid:

  • Aggressive or fin-nipping fish (barbs, guppies, large tetras).

  • Other Betta species — to prevent hybridization.

🔹 Breeding Information

• Type: Bubble-nest builder, like other bettas.

• Male Role: Builds bubble nest under floating plants or leaves.

• Spawning: Female lays eggs; male collects and guards them.

• Care: Remove female after spawning; male tends nest until fry hatch.

• Fry Care: Feed infusoria, then baby brine shrimp once they’re free-swimming.

• Difficulty: Moderate; easier than Betta splendens, but fry require soft, clean water.

🔹 Lifespan

• Average: 3–5 years in captivity.

• Can live longer in calm, natural setups with consistent care.

🔹 Why the Copper Imbellis is Special

• Natural Beauty: Metallic copper sheen with subtle iridescence — elegant and understated.

• Peaceful Nature: Can live in communities, unlike aggressive Betta splendens.

• Closer to the Wild Form: Displays natural betta behaviour, including gentle displays and bubble nesting.

• Hardy yet Sensitive: Adapts well to captivity if kept in soft, clean, and quiet conditions.

• Unique Personality: Curious and calm, making it perfect for planted or blackwater tanks.

🔹 Quick Care Summary

🌿 Summary

The Wild Betta imbellis Copper Male is a refined and peaceful alternative to the domestic betta. With its shimmering copper tones, calm nature, and natural grace, it’s perfect for planted or blackwater aquariums.
This species embodies balance — combining beauty, intelligence, and serenity — a living reflection of nature’s elegance.

FOR DELIVERY IN KOLKATA LOCATION ONLY. IMAGES ARE FOR REPRESENTATIVE PURPOSES ONLY.