Comet or Marine Betta

Details

Scientific Name: Calloplesiops altivelis
Family: Plesiopidae
Color: black, white

Fish Care

Fish Diet: Carnivore
Aggressiveness: Non-Aggressive
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gal
Max Size: 8"
Relative Care: Easy

Description


The Marine Betta, sometimes referred to as the Comet, is found in rocky crevasses, at depths up to 45 meters. It is a hardy and disease-resistant fish. A predator by nature, it assumes a “head down” position, with its false “eye spot” near the tail resembling the head of a moray eel.

The Marine Betta is not commonly kept in a reef-style aquarium, but it is reported to be safe with corals and anemones, however, it will eat all small fish and shrimp. It is nocturnal and requires hiding places to provide it shelter from bright lighting, being more active at dusk.

When first introduced into the aquarium, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. Using live foods such as feeder fish or shrimp will help it adjust. Once acclimated, it can be fed meaty foods and frozen preparations 2-4 times weekly.