Species profile
Peaceful Betta
Betta simplex
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
60 L minimum aquarium
5–7 cm adult size
Top mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Unlike many wild Bettas, B. simplex is associated with limestone water and should not automatically be placed in very soft acidic blackwater.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
7–8.5
GH
5–20 dGH
KH
3–15 dKH
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
0.9
Paternal mouthbrooding wild Betta. Usually less combative than splendens-complex fish, but males remain territorial and a pair needs dense cover and escape routes.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
3–5 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Betta simplex
Alternative names
Peaceful Betta, Krabi Betta
Native range
Karst and limestone waters around Krabi Province, southern Thailand.
Natural habitat
Clear limestone pools, streams and spring-fed wetlands with relatively mineral-rich, neutral-to-alkaline water, marginal vegetation and sheltered edges.
Diet & feeding
Small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates; use varied live/frozen foods and suitable quality prepared Betta foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are generally more intensely coloured with stronger iridescence and fin development; females are plainer and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Paternal mouthbrooder. After spawning the male collects the fertilised eggs and incubates them orally until fully formed fry are released.