Imported 6/23/2026 shipping start 6/29/2026 From the Betta Splenden Complex. IUCN Red List: N/A Smaragdina are a species of betta in the Betta splendens complex identified by the snake like scales that cover their opercular membrane and body. Smaragdina are noted to be hardy and can withstand low temperature due to their high elevation habitat. Physical Characteristics Body Shape: Slender and elongated, part of the Betta splendens complex, with a streamlined, slightly compressed body. Reaches a maximum standard length of about 2.8 inches (7 cm), larger than some related species. Tail Shape: Typically rounded or spadetail, with long fins featuring a distinctive spider web-like pattern of black transverse bars between caudal rays, unlike the spotted or plain fins of standard Betta smaragdina. Coloration: Dark brown to black body with iridescent green or blue scales that shimmer due to light refraction from hexagonal crystals. Males display vibrant green-blue hues and red fin accents, while females are duller with brownish tones and muted iridescence. Operculum: Black with a "snake-scale" pattern of iridescent green or blue scales in males, more pronounced during flaring. Females have less vivid, simpler markings. Habitat: Native to northeastern Thailand, specifically around Bueng Khong Long Lake in Bueng Kan province. Inhabits slow-moving, shallow waters like rice paddies, swamps, and streams with dense vegetation and low oxygen. Prefers warm (25-27°C), slightly acidic (pH 5-7) water, using its labyrinth organ for breathing. WE ONLY SELECT healthy high quality fish to ship out ALL of our fish go through 2 or more weeks of quarantine before being sold. The quarantine period includes medication to remove parasites such as velvet and ich. All males come from the same lineage and are generally similar. Basic Information Temperament: Males are VERY aggressive and should be kept alone or in tanks with non-male betta mates. Can be kept in a planted community tank of multiple females if there is adequate space. Max Size: 2.3 inches TDS: 60 - 200 (We keep them in soft water with low TDS to match our other wild bettas but they are more tolerant of water conditions.) pH: 5.0-7.0 Temperature : 75-85 (much better coloration at warmer temperature above 78 degrees f). They are known to be able to withstand very low temperature (60 degrees f) Diet: Carnivorous, we currently feed them live blackworms, frozen bloodworms and pellets. Breeding: Bubblenester
