Betta fusca
CR

Betta fusca

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Betta_fusca

Overview

Betta fusca, commonly known as the dusky betta, is a species of gourami. It is a freshwater fish native to Asia, where it occurs on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. The species reaches 8.2 cm in total length and is known to be a mouthbrooder and a facultative air-breather.

Betta fusca faces severe habitat destruction from rapid deforestation and agricultural expansion across its limited range in Peninsular Malaysia. Peat swamp forests, the species' primary habitat, are being drained and converted at alarming rates for palm oil plantations and urban development. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities further degrades the acidic, tannin-rich waters this species requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

Betta fusca inhabits shallow, slow-moving waters in peat swamp forests of Peninsular Malaysia, preferring acidic, tannin-stained waters with dense vegetation cover. The species is typically found in forest streams, ditches, and temporary pools within primary and secondary peat swamp ecosystems.

Forest· majorWetlands (inland) - Permanent rivers/streams· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Betta fusca classified as Critically Endangered?
Betta fusca is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Betta fusca faces severe habitat destruction from rapid deforestation and agricultural expansion across its limited range in Peninsular Malaysia. Peat swamp forests, the species' primary habitat, are being drained and converted at alarming rates for palm oil plantations and urban development. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities further degrades the acidic, tannin-rich waters this species requires for survival.
Where does Betta fusca live?
Betta fusca occurs in Indonesia, Malaysia, Netherlands, and Singapore. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Betta fusca?
The main threats to Betta fusca are 5.3, ai-1, ai-2, and ai-3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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