Betta pinguis

Betta pinguis is a species of gourami endemic to Indonesia. It is an inhabitant of forest streams. This species grows to a length of 7.9 centimetres (3.1 in) SL. This fish is used by local peoples as bait.

Physical Appearance: 

•    Light brown
•    White band
•    Black stripe from lower jaw, through eye to gill plate

Finnage:

•    White edging on unpaired fins
•    Male – extended anal fin rays
•    Male – spade-shaped caudal fin

Size: Males – 3.5 inches in length

Keeping Betta pinguis from an Aquarist View

Housing

Betta pinguis can be housed in pairs, species tanks, and community tanks.  Pairs can be housed in a 10 gallon tank, groups should be housed in a 55 gallon tank or larger.  Pairs should be given cover such as caves and plants.  In a pair or species situation it is possible that fry could be discovered in the tanks.

Water Conditions

Betta pinguis should have soft acidic water that is well filtered.  They should be kept at mid 70s F.

Sexing

Males are more intensely colored.  Males also have pointed dorsal and anal fins whereas females are rounder.

Reproduction

Pinguis is a paternal mouthbrooder.

Similar Species

Similar species would be all akarensis complex members.

Identification

Identification is based upon the face stripes.

by:  Gerald Griffin IBC 05.17.08

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