Calloplesiops altivelis
| Identification | Dark brown-black body covered in white-blue spots, with tall flowing fins. A false eyespot on the rear dorsal fin mimics the head of a moray eel. |
| Maximum Length | 6 inches |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific — Red Sea to the Line Islands |
| Minimum Tank Size | 55 gallons |
| Reef Compatibility | Yes — reef safe with caution (may eat small shrimp) |
Behavior
The Marine Betta (also called the Comet) is a strikingly elegant, secretive fish famous for its clever defense: when threatened it turns and presents its tail, where a large eyespot and its spotted pattern imitate the head of a whitemouth moray eel poking from a hole. It is a slow, deliberate, mostly nocturnal predator that spends the day tucked in caves and overhangs, emerging at dusk. It is peaceful and shy, and its long unpaired fins and spangled coloration make it a beautiful, unusual centerpiece for a calm reef or FOWLR tank.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivore. Ambushes small fish and crustaceans at dusk and night. In captivity may need live foods (live saltwater shrimp) to begin feeding, then can usually be weaned onto meaty frozen foods — mysis, chopped silversides, and krill. Feed in the evening when it is active.
Cautions
Shy and slow-feeding — do not house with fast, aggressive, or boisterous fish that will outcompete it for food. Will eat small ornamental shrimp and tiny fish. Provide plenty of caves and overhangs so it feels secure. Often nocturnal, especially at first. Sensitive to poor water quality; a secure lid is wise.