Marine betta
Calloplesiops altivelis · Plesiopidae
Also known as Comet, Comet grouper
Intermediate
A spotted, secretive night hunter that mimics a moray; peaceful with anything it cannot swallow.
In short: A marine betta needs at least 265 L (70 US gal), water at 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) and pH 8.1–8.4. It is peaceful, usually kept singly, and rated intermediate to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 265 L (70 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Adult size
- 20 cm (7.9 in)
- Group size
- 1+
Reef & marine husbandry
- Specific gravity
- 1.023–1.026
- Reef safety
- Reef safe
- With corals
- Reef safe.
- With inverts
- Eats small shrimp.
- Minimum in a mixed reef
- 265 L (70 US gal)
- Minimum fish-only (FOWLR)
- 265 L (70 US gal)
- Aggression
- Ambushes small tank mates only.
- Feeding
- Every other day, in the evening.
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 265 L (70 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Hardness
- 8–12 dGH
- Lifespan
- 8–15 years
- Diet
- Carnivore — mysis, krill, silversides, chopped seafood.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Indian Ocean and western Pacific
- Water type
- Saltwater
- Biotope
- Reef caves and overhangs
- Natural conditions
- Dim caves, moderate flow.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 1 fish
- Swims
- All levels
- Good tank mates
- TangsAngelsLarger wrasses
- Avoid
- Small gobiesOrnamental shrimp
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- No reliable difference.
- Notes
- Occasionally bred; eggs laid in caves.
- Common ailments
- Marine ichRefusing prepared food initially
Will it fit your tank?
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