Betta coccina is a highly variable species of wild Betta that is commonly encountered in the hobby. There is some question as to whether or not all the Betta coccina in the hobby represent a single species, a complex of species, or if these are often misidentified. Typically, this fish is bright red, with a blue or greenish blue square on the middle of the body.
Betta coccina is a submerged bubblenester, meaning small bubblenests are built under submerged surfaces, such as leaves. These fish spawn regularly and easily. Coccina are an excellent beginners fish for those just getting into wild Betta, and should be easy to keep and breed.
As with all wild Betta species, care should be taken to ensure that the tank is securely covered, as these fish may be fairly jumpy. The lid should not be air tight; Betta are air breathers, and will die if they cannot gain access to fresh air. These fish are best maintained in a small species tank, but may also be an interesting addition to a planted aquarium. They will mix well small, non aggressive fish, such as slower moving tetras and rasbora, small Corydoras (e.g., C. habrosus or C. pygmaeus), Loricariids, and the like. Ensure that these fish are not eating all of the food -- Betta tend to be slow, methodical feeders.