Betta Smaragdina

Meet Betta Smaragdina, the emerald-draped centerpiece of any freshwater setup. Named from the Latin smaragdinus, meaning emerald-coloured, this Betta is a striking reminder of nature’s vivid palette. Native to the Khorat Plateau in eastern Thailand, the species thrives in still, sluggish waters—precisely the kind of environment you can recreate in a well-planned planted tank.

Why choose Betta Smaragdina?

The emerald hue isn’t just about color—it’s a visual statement in a tank full of greens. At 50–70 mm in length, Betta Smaragdina offers a compact, dynamic presence that rewards attentive, species-appropriate care. Its natural habitat—shaded, vegetation-rich, slow-moving waters—translates into a peaceful, contemplative viewing experience when you design a tank that emphasizes shelter, surface cover, and gentle currents.

Ideal habitat and tank setup

To mirror its natural world and keep this Betta thriving, consider a well-planted, shady aquarium with ample surface cover. Practical setup ideas include:

• Plant choices: tall stem plants, floating varieties such as Salvinia or Riccia, and aquatic lilies (Nymphaea). Cryptocoryne species, Microsorum, and Taxiphyllum also create appealing, low-stress havens.
• Decor and shelter: driftwood, small clay pots, plastic tubes, or empty camera film cases provide hiding spots; leaf litter supports microbe colonies that can aid fry and contribute beneficial tannins.
• Filtration and flow: a gentle, low-flow environment is key—an air-powered sponge filter set to turn over slowly helps maintain oxygen without disturbing the calm waters this species prefers.
• Tank layout: keep the aquarium well-covered and avoid filling it to the very top. Betta spp. are great jumpers and benefit from access to a humid air layer above the water surface.

Care requirements and water conditions

For optimal health, maintain conditions that align with its natural tolerance and daily needs:

• Temperature: 22–28 °C
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Hardness: 18–179 ppm
• Water movement: keep flow gentle to mimic still waterways and protect surface-dwelling comfort

Diet and nutrition

Betta Smaragdina will instinctively prey on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates in the wild. In the aquarium, offer a mix of small live or frozen foods to enhance color, activity, and overall condition. Suggested options include Daphnia, Artemia, and chironomid larvae (bloodworms). Dried foods can be included as a staple once your fish recognizes them, but avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and water quality issues. A well-balanced diet supports vivid coloration and robust health.

Behavior, compatibility, and tank planning

This species is not typically suited to standard community tanks. It shines in a purpose-built, calm aquarium where hiding places reduce stress and competition for surface territory is minimized. If kept with other inhabitants, choose compatible, non-aggressive, slow-moving tankmates and ensure plenty of shelter and open swimming space. The result is a striking, low-activity centerpiece that rewards patient observation and careful husbandry.

Who is Betta Smaragdina ideal for?

• Aquarists seeking a visually distinctive Betta with emerald hues that pop in a planted setup.
• Hands-on hobbyists who enjoy designing and maintaining a species-focused tank with microbe-rich leaf litter and natural tannins.
• Anyone aiming to recreate a shaded, slow-water habitat that mirrors the Khorat Plateau ecosystems.

With Betta Smaragdina, you’re not just adding another fish to your aquarium—you’re introducing a living emerald that rewards thoughtful design, precise care, and an eye for natural beauty. Create the environment, feed thoughtfully, and watch the emerald glow reveal itself in a tranquil, meticulously tended tank.