ORA Marine Betta

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Easy
• Diet: Carnivore
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Reef-Safe: With Caution
• Source: Captive Bred
• Approximate Purchase Size: 1.25"
• Approximate Max Size: 7-8"
• Recommended Tank Size: 50 Gallons or Larger

Overview

This fish is shipped directly to you with exceptional care and high-grade packaging specifically made for live animals from our partner, ORA. This animal is certified by the Mr. Chili Sustainability Alliance, meaning it is sustainably bred, was raised with exceptional husbandry practices, and 2% of net proceeds will be donated to support Ocean Conservation. 

The Marine Betta (Calloplesiops altivelis), also sometimes called the Comet, is a stunning and unique saltwater fish with a mesmerizing starry pattern and an unmistakable false eye spot near its tail. This distinctive marking helps confuse both predators and prey, making it a fascinating species to observe. While Marine Bettas are predatory and will eat small fish and invertebrates, they are surprisingly shy and prefer peaceful tankmates that won’t harass them. When housed appropriately, they display slow, graceful swimming behavior, making them a captivating centerpiece for a well-planned aquarium.

Note: Image is a representation of what to expect. The fish you receive may vary slightly in appearance.

Aquarium Requirements

Aquarium Size

A minimum tank size of 50 gallons is recommended for a Marine Betta, but a larger aquarium will provide more stability and space, especially if housing other fish. These fish are naturally shy and benefit from ample swimming room and rock structures for hiding.

Habitat Recommendations

Marine Bettas thrive in environments that closely resemble their natural habitat. Here’s how to set up their ideal home:

• Aquascaping: Provide plenty of caves, ledges, and overhangs using live rock. Hiding spots help reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
• Substrate: This fish has no specific substrate requirements and can be kept in aquariums using sand of various grain sizes, crushed coral, or no substrate at all.
• Lighting: Marine Bettas tend to be sensitive to bright light and may hide during the day in high light systems. 

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water conditions is essential for the Marine Betta's health.

• Temperature: 75-78°F
• pH Level: 7.7 to 8.5.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.026 (27-35ppt)
• Ammonia and Nitrite: Undetectable
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm
• Water Flow: Avoid strong currents, as they prefer calmer waters.

Diet

Marine Bettas are carnivorous predators that primarily feed on small fish and invertebrates. They prefer live or frozen foods and may take time to adjust to prepared diets.

Primary Diet: Live or Frozen Food. Mysis shrimp, krill, and silversides. They may also eat small live fish.

Feeding Tips: Feed 1-2 times per day in small portions. If offering frozen food, ensure it is fully thawed before feeding.

Compatibility

Marine Bettas are predatory yet shy. They tend to avoid conflict but will eat smaller tank mates. Choose companions carefully.

Common Tank Mates: Larger peaceful fish like Tangs, wrasses, angelfish, and certain butterflyfish.

Tank Mates to Avoid: Small fish and invertebrates. Anything that fits in their mouth is at risk. Aggressive or fast-moving fish should also be avoided.

Coral Compatibility: While Marine Bettas aren't often kept in reef aquariums, they are generally considered safe with corals.

Behavioral Notes

• Shy, but Predatory: They tend to hide in rock crevices but will ambush prey when hunting.
• Unique Hunting Strategy: Their false eye spot confuses prey, making it difficult to detect their true head position.
• Nighttime Activity: Marine Bettas tend to be most active in the hours when the lights are dim or off.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation instructions are included in each box, but if you misplaced yours or want to know what to expect ahead of time, you can always find an extra copy here: Fish Acclimation Instructions