VU

Betta midas

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Betta midas faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as peat swamp forests in Peninsular Malaysia are cleared for palm oil plantations and urban development. The species' extremely limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, while collection for the ornamental fish trade adds additional stress to wild populations. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities further degrades the acidic, tannin-rich waters this species requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

Betta midas inhabits shallow, slow-moving streams and pools within peat swamp forests of Peninsular Malaysia. These environments are characterized by soft, acidic water with high tannin content from decomposing organic matter, creating the dark, tea-colored conditions essential for the species' survival.

Shrubland· majorWetlands (inland) - Bogs, marshes, swamps, fens· major

Conservation measures underway

Resource & habitat protectionSpecies managementSpecies recoveryAwareness & communications

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Betta midas classified as Vulnerable?
Betta midas is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Betta midas faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as peat swamp forests in Peninsular Malaysia are cleared for palm oil plantations and urban development. The species' extremely limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, while collection for the ornamental fish trade adds additional stress to wild populations. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities further degrades the acidic, tannin-rich waters this species requires for survival.
Where does Betta midas live?
Betta midas occurs in Indonesia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Betta midas?
The main threats to Betta midas are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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