Species Description…

Scientific Name: Calloplesiops altivelis

Common Name: Marine Betta

Species Group: Roundheads, Comet Fish

Habitat: Reef Safe

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 8 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 50 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific

Calloplesiops Altivelis - The Marine Betta

Calloplesiops Altivelis (The Marine Betta)

Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, caves, and rocky crevices.
Recognized by its dark body adorned with white spots and its large, rounded fins that resemble a betta fish.
A peaceful and secretive species that prefers to stay hidden during the day and becomes more active at night.
Known for its unique defensive behavior of imitating the appearance of a moray eel to deter predators.
Requires a well-structured aquarium with shaded hiding spots and rock formations for security.

Carnivorous, feeding primarily on small crustaceans, fish, and zooplankton in the wild.
Readily accepts frozen shrimp, mysis shrimp, silversides, and other meaty marine foods.
Can be trained to eat high-quality pellets and flakes over time.
Prefers low-light conditions for feeding, making evening or nighttime feedings ideal.
Providing a varied diet helps maintain strong health and vibrant coloration.

Typically found in reef environments with ample caves and overhangs.
Prefers low to moderate water movement with stable water conditions.
Aquarium setups should include live rock structures, crevices, and shaded areas.
Thrives in well-maintained marine tanks that provide plenty of shelter.
Providing a dimly lit or twilight-lit environment encourages natural behavior.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support proper metabolic function.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires efficient filtration and routine water changes to maintain water quality.
Avoids excessive light exposure, so tank lighting should be adjusted accordingly.
Providing multiple hiding places reduces stress and encourages a natural daily routine.

Peaceful and best housed with other non-aggressive fish.
Compatible with tangs, gobies, wrasses, and other reef-safe species.
Not safe with small shrimp or tiny fish, as they may be viewed as prey.
Should not be kept with overly aggressive fish that may harass or outcompete it for food.
Providing a calm, low-stress environment ensures a thriving specimen.

A nocturnal species that spends much of the day hiding and becomes active in the evening.
Often seen hovering in caves or slowly swimming near rock formations.
Uses its large, spotted fins to mimic the appearance of a moray eel when threatened.
Providing adequate hiding spots and dim lighting encourages natural behaviors.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and show interactive behaviors, especially during feeding.