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Marine betta

Calloplesiops altivelis

Today's Research for Tomorrow's Oceans

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Fun Facts

These fish are nocturnal feeders, meaning they wait until nighttime to search for food. 

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Marine betta

Size:

These fish can reach up to 6.3 inches (16 centimeters) long.

Diet:

Marine bettas eat small fish and crustaceans like shrimp and krill.

Range & Habitat:

In the Indo-west Pacific, marine bettas can be found in tropical waters among coral reef habitats. They hide in coral caves and crevices.

Details:

A large, false eye-spot near the base of their tail and dorsal fin helps confuse predators. Their elegant, elongated fins fan out, and their bodies are lined with a striking electric-blue outline. Marine bettas are stealthy hunters, hide in caves and crevices during the day, emerging at night to hunt. Males carry fertilized eggs in their mouths to protect them until they hatch.