Forest Betta (Betta pugnax)

Forest Betta (Betta pugnax)

A small Forest Betta found by the side of a shallow forest stream.

Family: Osphronemidae

Species Name: Betta pugnax
Common Name: Forest Betta, Penang Betta, Malayan Forest Betta
Presence in Singapore: Native
Habitat: Forest streams, rural ponds and catchments.
Conservation Status: Least Concern (Red Data Book 3)

While the popular fighting fish (Betta splendens) isn't native to Singapore, a few of its cousins are and the most common is the Forest Betta. It is adaptable and lives in a variety of freshwater habitats from flowing forest streams to stagnant ponds, where it feeds on small invertebrates. Its ability to breathe air like all anabantoids helps greatly with its adaptability. Mature individuals display a beautiful blue and have the ability to show a few lateral lines depending on its mood, usually when being stressed or territorial. Growing up to a max of 10cm, large-sized individuals are robustly built as seen in the photograph below. Unlike its popular cousin, the Forest Betta is a mouth-brooder where the male protects its eggs and fry in its mouth. 

A nearly full-grown Forest Betta resting on a sunken branch. (Photograph by: Lumin Ong)

References

• Lim, K.P. and Ng, K.L. 1990. A Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Singapore. Singapore Science Centre.
• National Parks Board (NParks). Freshwater Fishes. Retrieved from https://www.nparks.gov.sg/nature/species-list/freshwater-fishes.