I'd like to note that one might notice the contradiction between the notes mentioning betta sp. mahachai breeding best in pH of 7.8 and my saying betta splendens prefers lower pH. Please keep in mind that mahachai also prefers to breed in brackish waters, whereas splendens seems to avoid waters containing levels of saline. There is also reasonable arguement that mahachai is it's own species and as such has recquirements differing from those of the more common and commercial betta splendens.