Betta splendens

This, in the form found in pet stores, is not a natural fish, but will have been bred, probably line-bred, for many generations. It does occur in the wild, in ditches, marshes and rice paddies in Thailand. Even there, though, I expect it is genetically mixed with domestic varieties, given the sheer popularity of this fish in Asia.

IUCN lists the wild population of this fish as vulnerable, mainly due to habitat loss.

If you have information about or footage of this fish in the wild, please reach out to us.

Bettas are best kept alone or in couple. Two males will kill each other. 'Sororities' are a thing, but not universally recommended. Bettas are labyrinth fish (relatives of gouramis) and can handle water low in oxygen - stagnant water. They are not build for strong flow, and less so are the line-bred varieties with opulent fins. These shallow waters also tend to be warm, and a betta's small tank should be kept at 25-28 degrees - though up to 32 in summer should not be a problem. Breeding is easy once you get the hang of it. Both male and female need to be encouraged a bit. Keeping them within sight, but out of reach of each other seems to do the trick. After a day or so of that, bring them (back) together and the male will probably build a bubble nest. They do the famous betta embrace, collect the eggs, and place them in the bubbles. Dozens of fry will appear in three days or so, and they eat fry powder. They problem here is that you easily breed too many. Especially the less impressive females are not that easy to give away or sell.