Anthony's Bettas

Adults reach about 5 cm long. Their base colour is grey with faint dark horizontal stripes running from head to tail. A distinctive feature is a pattern of black bands and spots around the mouth. Males, unlike females, have iridescent scales and fin edges with rainbow hues.

The natural range of this species is in Southeast Asia, specifically on the Indonesian side of Borneo in West Kalimantan. They inhabit the lower reaches of the Kapuas River basin. They live in quiet river sections or backwaters with clear water, sometimes tinged slightly brown by humic and tannin compounds from decomposing plant matter. These waters are shaded because dense tree canopies nearly close over the surface, yet plants still form lush growth along the banks.

Among males in a population, competition for dominance is common. In small tanks, fights between them occur frequently, though they rarely cause serious injury. During breeding, females may show aggression toward other fish species to defend their future offspring. Overall, these fish are quite peaceful and get along well with tank mates.

For one or two fish, a minimum aquarium volume of 50 litres is recommended. For a group of 3–4 or more, provide many hiding places given their behavioural traits. Driftwood, dense plant growth and decorative elements serve well as refuges. Beyond this, tank décor is a matter of personal choice. Many experienced aquarists add dried oak, birch, beech, maple, hazel or Indian almond leaves to the bottom, soaked first so they do not float. As they slowly decompose, they release tannins that give the water a chemical composition and tint close to their natural habitat. Water quality is crucial for long-term success. Maintain stable water parameters within acceptable ranges. Avoid accumulation of organic matter that can raise nitrogen cycle products (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate) and upset biological balance. Stability depends on regular maintenance such as water changes and waste removal, and reliable equipment, especially filtration.

These fish are carnivorous, hunting small insects and other invertebrates in nature. If given the chance, they will eat very small fish such as fry. Once adjusted to tank life, they readily accept alternative foods. A varied daily diet of dried, frozen and live foods works well. Specialized pellets formulated for Betta species by various manufacturers are an excellent choice.

Anthony's Bettas show devoted parental care and have evolved a unique fry protection strategy. Instead of laying eggs on the substrate or among plants, they brood eggs in the mouth. Males undertake this incubation duty. Females actively defend the territory, patrolling and driving off potential predators. Females also take the initiative in courtship. Spawning is accompanied by a characteristic 'embrace dance' where the pair winds gracefully around each other. Incubation lasts 12 to 17 days, after which fully formed fry appear, ready to feed. Feed them specialized powdered foods, suspensions or live food such as brine shrimp nauplii.

Most health problems in fish arise from unsuitable keeping conditions. Maintaining a stable, comfortable environment is key to success. If symptoms of disease appear, check water quality first. If parameters are off, correct them at once. If symptoms persist or worsen, medication may be needed.

Betta antoni is rarely available in general trade and often requires ordering from specialized suppliers. Inspect any fish for signs of stress: healthy individuals show curiosity, have clean fins free of erosion, and tightly-fitting scales. Avoid specimens with sunken bellies, signs of lethargy, or unnaturally clamped fins, as this species is sensitive to transport conditions and water quality. Ask the seller about the water conditions they kept the fish in, since it requires soft, acidic water close to its natural parameters for successful adaptation.