The Betta or Siamese fighting fish They are one of the most striking freshwater species thanks to their intense colours and spectacular fins. However, they are also known for their territorial and aggressive behaviour, especially among males. Despite this, they are very popular fish among aquarium hobbyists due to their resistance and personality.
Origin and natural habitat of the Betta fish
The Betta fish (Betta splendens) is native to Southeast Asia, especially the Mekong River basin in countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and LaosIn its natural environment, it lives in shallow waters, such as rice fields, ponds and swamps, where conditions can be extreme due to low oxygenation and high temperatures.
One of their most fascinating features is that they have a labyrinthine organ, which allows them to take oxygen directly from the air, an adaptation that helps them survive in waters with low oxygen levels. Because of this, they can live in conditions where other fish would not survive.
Behavior and coexistence of the Betta fish
Betta fish are famous for their aggressive nature, especially the males. Two males should not be kept in the same aquarium., as they will fight until one is seriously injured or dies. Females can live together, but it is preferable to keep them in groups of at least 4 to 5 individuals to avoid hierarchy problems.
If you want your Betta to live with other species, it is best to choose calm fish that do not have long or flashy fins, as this can cause aggression from the Betta. Some suitable options include:
- Corydoras: Peaceful and bottom-dwelling habits.
- Kuhli Loach: Active and elusive.
- Snails and shrimps: They can be good options, but some Bettas may try to attack them.
It is advisable to avoid fish with bright colors and similar fins, such as Guppies, as they can trigger aggressive responses in the Betta.
Aquarium requirements for betta fish
Although it is often said that Bettas can live in small containers without filtration, this is a mistake. To ensure their well-being, they should ideally live in an aquarium with a minimum of 20 liters for a single copy.
Some key aspects of a Betta fish tank include:
- Water temperature: It should be kept between 24 and 30ºC. It is advisable to have a heater to keep the temperature stable.
- Filtration: Although Bettas do not require a strong water flow, a low flow filter is recommended to maintain water quality.
- Substrate and decoration: It is preferable to use fine gravel or sand and decorate with natural plants such as Anubias, Vallisneria or Java Moss, which provide shelter and reduce stress.
- Hiding spaces: You can add elements such as logs or caves, as Bettas like to explore and hide.
Feeding the Betta Fish
The Betta is a fish carnivorous, so their diet should be based on proteins of animal origin. In nature, they feed on insects, larvae and small crustaceans. In captivity, it is recommended to provide:
- Specific pellets or granules for Betta with high protein content.
- Live or frozen food, such as mosquito larvae, daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms.
- Occasionally, they may consume small portions of cooked vegetables such as skinless peas.
It is crucial to avoid overfeeding, as the Betta is prone to digestive problems such as constipation and bloating.
Betta fish reproduction
Bettas have a unique reproductive behavior. The male builds a bubble nest on the surface of the water to house the eggs. During courtship, the male envelops the female in an "embrace", at which point she releases the eggs, which the male fertilises and carefully places in the nest.
After laying the eggs, the male will take care of protecting them until they hatch, keeping them inside the nest and picking them up if they fall. At this stage, it is advisable to remove the female, as the male can become aggressive towards her.
Common Diseases in Betta Fish
Betta fish are generally hardy, but if the aquarium conditions are not optimal, they can get sick. Some of the most common diseases are:
- columnaris: Bacterial infection that affects the skin and fins.
- White Point: Parasite that causes small white spots on the body of the fish.
- Fin rot: Bacterial infection that progressively destroys the fins of the fish.
- Dropsy: A serious illness that causes abdominal swelling and can be fatal.
To prevent these diseases, it is essential to maintain good water quality, provide a balanced diet and avoid stress in the fish.
The Betta fish is one of the most fascinating species in the aquarium world. Its territorial behaviour, ability to interact with its environment and spectacular beauty make it a popular choice among hobbyists. However, they require specific care, such as a suitable aquarium, a protein-rich diet and an optimal environment for their well-being. Under the right conditions, they can live between 3 and 5 years, offering a spectacle of colour and elegance unmatched in any aquarium.
