Betta simorum
VU

Betta simorum

Declining

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

Overview

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

Betta simorum faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as peat swamp forests in Peninsular Malaysia are cleared for palm oil plantations and urban development. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities degrades the acidic, tannin-rich waters this species requires for survival. The aquarium trade poses an additional threat, with wild populations being harvested for the international ornamental fish market.

Threat summary

Habitat

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

Wetlands (inland)· 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 simorum classified as Vulnerable?
Betta simorum 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 simorum faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as peat swamp forests in Peninsular Malaysia are cleared for palm oil plantations and urban development. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities degrades the acidic, tannin-rich waters this species requires for survival. The aquarium trade poses an additional threat, with wild populations being harvested for the international ornamental fish market.
Where does Betta simorum live?
Betta simorum 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 simorum?
The main threats to Betta simorum 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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