Tank setup
A minimum 300L aquarium suits Marine Betta. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Marine Betta, or Comet, is a shy and cryptic predator known for its stunning, dark body covered in bright white or blue spots, resembling a starry night. It is not a true betta but a type of grouper. This fish is nocturnal, preferring to hide in caves and under ledges during the day. It is peaceful with any fish it cannot swallow but will prey on small fish and ornamental shrimp. It should be housed in a tank with ample hiding places. A fascinating mimicry behavior is its tendency to back into a crevice when threatened, exposing its tail, which features a prominent false eyespot to fool predators into thinking it's the head of a larger moray eel.
Key traits
solitary
predator
reef safe
medium
moderate
carnivore
Compatibility
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Care guide
Everything you need to keep Marine Betta healthy in a South African setup.
Water parameters
Keep pH 8.1–8.4 and 24–27°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Marine Betta is carnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for saltwater fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Behaviour
Marine Betta is generally solitary. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Tankmates
Pair with similarly sized solitary tankmates in saltwater fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding
Breeding notes for Marine Betta vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
Keeping a betta?
Warm, clean, calm water and the right food are most of betta keeping.
3-PIECE KIT
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
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From hobbyists across SA.
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