Betta Hendra 3-4cm

Description

Hendra Betta (Betta hendra)

Small in size but breathtaking in colour, Betta hendra is one of the most sought-after wild Betta species in the aquarium hobby. Native to the peat swamps of Borneo, this stunning labyrinth fish displays an iridescent blue-green body with deep crimson fins, making it a true jewel for blackwater and planted aquariums.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Betta hendra
  • Common name: Hendra Betta
  • Current size: Approximately 2–3 cm
  • Adult size: 3–4 cm
  • Tank size: 20L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: πŸ”΄ Advanced
  • Temperament: Peaceful but territorial towards rival males
  • Best kept: As a compatible pair or a carefully managed group in a heavily planted aquarium

Is this for you?

βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

  • You enjoy rare wild Betta species.
  • You maintain blackwater or biotope aquariums.
  • You appreciate subtle yet spectacular natural colours.
  • You're interested in breeding bubble-nesting Bettas.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You have a brightly lit, sparsely decorated aquarium.
  • You keep aggressive or fast-moving fish.
  • Your aquarium has strong water flow.
  • You cannot maintain soft, stable water conditions.

Why choose Betta hendra?

Discovered relatively recently and named after Indonesian aquarist Hendra Tan, Betta hendra originates from the acidic peat swamps of Central Kalimantan, Borneo. These dark, tannin-rich waters have produced one of the most beautifully coloured miniature Bettas available.

Despite reaching only around 4 cm as adults, males display brilliant turquoise-blue iridescence across the body, contrasting beautifully with deep crimson fins and subtle metallic highlights. During courtship, their colours intensify dramatically, creating an unforgettable display.

Unlike the larger Siamese Fighting Fish, Betta hendra is best appreciated in a natural aquarium with floating plants, leaf litter and subdued lighting that closely mimics its native habitat.

Benefits

  • Rare and highly desirable wild Betta species
  • Brilliant blue-green iridescence with rich crimson fins
  • Perfect for blackwater aquariums
  • Compact size ideal for nano aquariums
  • Fascinating bubble nest breeding behaviour
  • Excellent species for dedicated wild Betta collections

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 24–28Β°C
  • pH: 4.5–6.5
  • Diet: Premium Betta pellets, live mosquito larvae, daphnia, baby brine shrimp, frozen bloodworms and other small live or frozen foods
  • Water: Soft, clean and gently filtered with minimal water movement
  • Substrate: Dark sand with leaf litter
  • Setup: Heavily planted aquarium with driftwood, floating plants, botanicals and shaded hiding places
  • Always provide easy access to the water surface, as they breathe atmospheric air using their labyrinth organ.
  • Keep the aquarium tightly covered, as wild Bettas are excellent jumpers.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Betta imbellis (species-only aquariums preferred over mixing)
  • Chili Rasboras
  • Phoenix Rasboras
  • Otocinclus
  • Small Caridina Shrimp (with caution)
NTA Insight:
Betta hendra rewards patient aquarists who recreate its natural environment. Dark water, floating plants, botanicals and subdued lighting allow this species to display its richest colours. While peaceful by wild Betta standards, males still appreciate clearly defined territories, making dense planting and broken lines of sight particularly beneficial. A mature aquarium rich in microfauna also encourages natural foraging behaviour and successful breeding.

FAQ

Is Betta hendra suitable for beginners?

It is best suited to aquarists with some experience keeping wild Bettas or maintaining soft, acidic blackwater aquariums.

How big does Betta hendra grow?

Adults typically reach around 3–4 cm, making them one of the smaller wild Betta species.

Are they aggressive?

They are considerably less aggressive than Betta splendens, although males will establish territories and display to rivals.

Do they build bubble nests?

Yes. Mature males construct bubble nests beneath floating plants or leaves and care for the eggs and fry after spawning.

Can they live in a community aquarium?

Yes, but only with very small, peaceful species that enjoy similar water conditions. Many enthusiasts prefer species-only aquariums to showcase their natural behaviour.

Why do they prefer blackwater aquariums?

In the wild they inhabit tannin-rich peat swamps with soft, acidic water. Replicating these conditions helps reduce stress, enhances colour and encourages breeding.

How long does Betta hendra live?

With excellent care, stable water quality and a varied diet, they typically live for 3–5 years.

Betta Hendra 3-4cm

Product form

Out of stock,  

$69.00


All prices include GST
Is Online Fish Ordering Right for You?
    • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
    • Live Guaranteed to your Home or Office
    • Price Match Available

    Description

    Hendra Betta (Betta hendra)

    Small in size but breathtaking in colour, Betta hendra is one of the most sought-after wild Betta species in the aquarium hobby. Native to the peat swamps of Borneo, this stunning labyrinth fish displays an iridescent blue-green body with deep crimson fins, making it a true jewel for blackwater and planted aquariums.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Betta hendra
    • Common name: Hendra Betta
    • Current size: Approximately 2–3 cm
    • Adult size: 3–4 cm
    • Tank size: 20L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: πŸ”΄ Advanced
    • Temperament: Peaceful but territorial towards rival males
    • Best kept: As a compatible pair or a carefully managed group in a heavily planted aquarium

    Is this for you?

    βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

    • You enjoy rare wild Betta species.
    • You maintain blackwater or biotope aquariums.
    • You appreciate subtle yet spectacular natural colours.
    • You're interested in breeding bubble-nesting Bettas.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You have a brightly lit, sparsely decorated aquarium.
    • You keep aggressive or fast-moving fish.
    • Your aquarium has strong water flow.
    • You cannot maintain soft, stable water conditions.

    Why choose Betta hendra?

    Discovered relatively recently and named after Indonesian aquarist Hendra Tan, Betta hendra originates from the acidic peat swamps of Central Kalimantan, Borneo. These dark, tannin-rich waters have produced one of the most beautifully coloured miniature Bettas available.

    Despite reaching only around 4 cm as adults, males display brilliant turquoise-blue iridescence across the body, contrasting beautifully with deep crimson fins and subtle metallic highlights. During courtship, their colours intensify dramatically, creating an unforgettable display.

    Unlike the larger Siamese Fighting Fish, Betta hendra is best appreciated in a natural aquarium with floating plants, leaf litter and subdued lighting that closely mimics its native habitat.

    Benefits

    • Rare and highly desirable wild Betta species
    • Brilliant blue-green iridescence with rich crimson fins
    • Perfect for blackwater aquariums
    • Compact size ideal for nano aquariums
    • Fascinating bubble nest breeding behaviour
    • Excellent species for dedicated wild Betta collections

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 24–28Β°C
    • pH: 4.5–6.5
    • Diet: Premium Betta pellets, live mosquito larvae, daphnia, baby brine shrimp, frozen bloodworms and other small live or frozen foods
    • Water: Soft, clean and gently filtered with minimal water movement
    • Substrate: Dark sand with leaf litter
    • Setup: Heavily planted aquarium with driftwood, floating plants, botanicals and shaded hiding places
    • Always provide easy access to the water surface, as they breathe atmospheric air using their labyrinth organ.
    • Keep the aquarium tightly covered, as wild Bettas are excellent jumpers.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Betta imbellis (species-only aquariums preferred over mixing)
    • Chili Rasboras
    • Phoenix Rasboras
    • Otocinclus
    • Small Caridina Shrimp (with caution)
    NTA Insight:
    Betta hendra rewards patient aquarists who recreate its natural environment. Dark water, floating plants, botanicals and subdued lighting allow this species to display its richest colours. While peaceful by wild Betta standards, males still appreciate clearly defined territories, making dense planting and broken lines of sight particularly beneficial. A mature aquarium rich in microfauna also encourages natural foraging behaviour and successful breeding.

    FAQ

    Is Betta hendra suitable for beginners?

    It is best suited to aquarists with some experience keeping wild Bettas or maintaining soft, acidic blackwater aquariums.

    How big does Betta hendra grow?

    Adults typically reach around 3–4 cm, making them one of the smaller wild Betta species.

    Are they aggressive?

    They are considerably less aggressive than Betta splendens, although males will establish territories and display to rivals.

    Do they build bubble nests?

    Yes. Mature males construct bubble nests beneath floating plants or leaves and care for the eggs and fry after spawning.

    Can they live in a community aquarium?

    Yes, but only with very small, peaceful species that enjoy similar water conditions. Many enthusiasts prefer species-only aquariums to showcase their natural behaviour.

    Why do they prefer blackwater aquariums?

    In the wild they inhabit tannin-rich peat swamps with soft, acidic water. Replicating these conditions helps reduce stress, enhances colour and encourages breeding.

    How long does Betta hendra live?

    With excellent care, stable water quality and a varied diet, they typically live for 3–5 years.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

    Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Nano Tanks Australia, Powered by Shopify

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Google Pay
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account