The Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) – a demanding betta

The Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens), colloquially known as the betta, stands as one of the most captivating and graceful fish, esteemed by aquarium enthusiasts worldwide. In its natural habitat, bettas live amidst oxygen-depleted waters, a condition that spurred the development of an additional respiratory organ known as the labyrinth. While this adaptation leads many aquarists to believe these fish can withstand a wide range of conditions, the reality proves otherwise. Maintaining bettas, particularly long-finned varieties, necessitates meticulous attention to water quality and precise environmental parameters. Acquiring the knowledge to establish an optimal aquarium habitat for bettas and mastering their care regimen ensures the longevity and vitality of these magnificent specimens, allowing enthusiasts to revel in their beauty for years to come.

Origins

The progenitors of contemporary bred varieties of betta trace their lineage to the habitats of Southeast Asia, specifically from the Mekong River basin in Laos, Thailand (formerly known as Siam, hence the moniker “Siamese fighting fish” in some publications), and Cambodia. Over time, the fish was artificially introduced into numerous other regions, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.

Breeding history

The legacy of breeding Siamese fighting fish spans centuries, rooted in the fascination of Thai children with these captivating creatures long before the 19th century. In the rice fields of Thailand, youths would gather these fish, pitting them against each other in organized bouts where the victorious fish claimed the title of “village champion.” Over time, their inherently aggressive disposition and the spectacle of their skirmishes in Siam led to intentional breeding efforts aimed at enhancing their fighting prowess. Furthermore, these contests became subject to wagers, with stakes ranging beyond mere currency; some participants staked their homes or even family members on the outcome of these intense duels!

This “sport” gained such widespread popularity that even King Rama III of Siam, renowned for his fondness for fighting activities, began to formally sanction it. Intrigued by these resilient and valiant fish, in 1840, King Rama III generously contributed some of his most prized specimens to Theodore Cantor, a distinguished Danish physician, zoologist, and botanist. Cantor’s subsequent exploration led to the publication of an article in 1849, wherein he christened the fish Macropodus pugnax. However, in 1909, Tate Regan’s research revealed the existence of another species bearing the name Macropodus pugnax, prompting him to rename the species Betta splendens. The genus name Betta draws inspiration from the famed “Bettah” warriors of antiquity. While the specific epithet splendens (derived from the Latin word splendidus) aptly characterizes the species’ resplendent appearance, translating to “splendid” in English.

The initial introduction of the Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) to Europe dates back to 1874 when French fish importer Pierre Carbonnier facilitated their transportation. Subsequently, they were distributed to Moscow and Berlin, expanding their presence across the continent. By 1910, these captivating fish found their way to the United States, marking their arrival in San Francisco. It was in this city that Frank Locke made a groundbreaking discovery in 1927, encountering the first vibrant variety of Betta splendens boasting vivid red fins. Since Locke’s pioneering observation, breeders worldwide have embarked on a journey of exploration, experimenting with a plethora of colors, fin shapes, and lengths. Today, the fruits of their labor manifest in the remarkable diversity and stunning coloration exhibited by these magnificent fish, captivating enthusiasts as they adorn the displays of pet stores.

Aquarium

The ideal aquarium size for bettas should be a minimum of 20-25 liters, with larger tanks being preferable for optimal comfort and well-being. Notably, short-finned varieties exhibit heightened agility and energy levels, necessitating ample space for unhindered movement compared to their long-finned counterparts. It is advisable to densely populate the tank with live plants and incorporate natural ornaments such as roots or coconut shells to provide a conducive environment for bettas. Caution should be exercised when selecting ornaments to avoid those with sharp edges, as these pose a risk of injury, particularly to long-finned varieties prone to fin damage. There is a diverse array of substrates available, affording aquarists the freedom to choose according to preference. Water-neutral quartz sands and active substrates designed for shrimp are recommended choices, facilitating both aesthetic appeal and stable water parameters.

Given the preference for subdued lighting, incorporating floating plants serves a dual purpose by diffusing light and offering shelter for the fish, enhancing their sense of security within the aquarium habitat.

Water parameters

While Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) are renowned for their adaptability to varying water conditions, they thrive best in soft water with a general hardness (GH) below 10^on and a slightly acidic pH below 7. Maintaining a water temperature ranging from 25-28°C, with optimal temperatures falling within the 26-27°C range, is crucial for their well-being. To achieve consistent temperature regulation, investing in a heater equipped with a thermostat and temperature control features is imperative.

Tannins play a significant role in enhancing the health and vitality of bettas. Almond (ketapang) leaves or extracts, alder cones, dry oak or beech leaves, among others, are ideal sources of tannins. It’s essential to note that tannins tend to coagulate in hard water, rendering their addition to such water unfavorable. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from incorporating tannin-rich additives into hard water environments to maintain optimal water quality for bettas.

Does a tank with bettas need a filter?

The aquarium for the fighting fish should be equipped with a filter. It may initially seem puzzling to some. However, understanding its importance is crucial for maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. Consider a scenario where a densely planted tank accommodates a single fighting fish, receiving daily feedings. Inevitably, uneaten food particles and undigested remnants accumulate, alongside excreted waste. These organic residues cannot directly partake in the nitrification process essential for maintaining water quality. Instead, they necessitate decomposition by specialized organisms known as decomposers, comprising oligochaetes, nematodes, flagellates, fungi, and bacteria.

During this breakdown process, nitrogen compounds emerge, initially manifesting as ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) in water with a pH below 7. As the water pH surpasses 7, the ammonium ions transform into toxic ammonia (NH₃). Only through the process of nitrification do these compounds undergo sequential conversion into nitrites (NO₂^–) and nitrates (NO₃^–), thereby detoxifying the water. Additionally, the decomposers liberate phosphates and various other essential elements from the organic matter, contributing to the overall nutrient cycle within the aquarium ecosystem.

So what do we need a filter for? Well, the decomposers that form activated sludge in the top layer of the aquarium substrate need a very large amount of oxygen. Due to the use of floating plants and the lack of movement of the water surface in an aquarium with a betta, there is too little oxygen reaching the top layer of the substrate. The use of a filter (preferably with a water diffuser) solves this problem by generating adequate water circulation in the aquarium. So, a properly selected filter (it must not cause too much water movement to allow the fish to swim freely) is recommended in an aquarium with a fighting fish.

How to change the water in an aquarium with a betta?

A critical aspect of betta fish care involves regular weekly water changes, typically comprising 20-30% of the tank volume. Consistency in this maintenance routine is paramount for sustaining a healthy aquatic environment. When executing water changes, it is imperative to match the temperature of the replacement water with that of the aquarium. For those utilizing tap water, incorporating a water treatment product is advisable to address potential contaminants such as chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals. However, it’s essential to exercise caution when selecting a conditioner, as formulations vary in their ability to neutralize specific compounds. Prior to purchase, scrutinize the product label to ascertain its effectiveness in neutralizing the targeted substances of concern, ensuring comprehensive water quality management for your betta habitat.

Should an aquarium with a betta be covered?

Remember that the Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) is a great jumper, so it is important to cover the aquarium tightly. A cover glass, cut Plexiglas or an aquarium cover – any of these will do the job. There is also an open aquarium option. However, in this case you need to lower the water level in the aquarium.

How many fighting fish can live together in an aquarium?

It is crucial to maintain breeding varieties of bettas separately within the aquarium, irrespective of their sex. Pairing them is only advisable during the spawning season. While some pet store attendants may suggest purchasing a pair or harem, this often leads to detrimental outcomes, such as damaged fins, injuries, and even fatalities among the fish.

What is a betta training?

To maintain your betta’s well-being, it’s recommended to engage it in training sessions at least once every 1-2 days. You can achieve this by using a mirror placed near the aquarium for 30-60 seconds, allowing the fish to exhibit its natural behaviors. This training not only strengthens the fish’s muscles but also enables you to assess the condition of its fins and gills accurately. Alternatively, you can hold a pen, stick, or finger near the glass of the aquarium to stimulate interaction. When selecting a new betta from a pet store, you can utilize the same methods to assess its responsiveness. If the fish fails to react to your stimuli in the store, such as your finger, mirror, or keys, it may indicate underlying health issues, and purchasing it may not be advisable.

What to feed bettas?

The Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) is naturally insectivorous, making it essential to carefully consider the composition of their diet when selecting foods. Achieving success in breeding these fish hinges upon providing a balanced and diverse array of nutrients. Therefore, incorporating both live foods and high-quality dry foods is recommended. Among ready-made options, Tropical Insect Menu Granules size S has proven to be eagerly consumed by the fish. Additionally, live foods such as aulophorus, Grindal worms, artemia, daphnia, glassworms, cyclops, and fruit flies are excellent choices. Supplementing their diet with high-quality vitamins further enhances their nutritional intake, contributing to their overall health and vitality.

Types of farmed bettas

You may have come across various enigmatic prefixes preceding the names of betta color varieties, such as HM, VT, HMPK, and others. These prefixes actually denote the shape of the tail fin. While there are so many color varieties that I would need to write a separate article to describe them, classifying breeding varieties by tail shape is a bit easier.

• VT – Veiltail bettas, they are the first variety of the long-finned bettas
• Delta – Delta tail, tail fin opening angle does not exceed 150^o. This is the first long-finned variety in which the tail began to have a symmetrical, rounded shape.
• SD – Super delta, the tail spread angle ranges from 150^o-175^o.
• HM – Halfmoon, the tail spread angle is 180^o.
• OHM – Over Halfmoon, tail  spread angle of more than 180^o.
• RT – Rosetail, a Halfmoon mutation characterized by excessive growth of the caudal fin (resembles rose petals).
• FT – Feathertail, similar to Rosetail, but the fins are shorter and look like bird feathers.
• DT – Doubletail, a variety that has two tail fins separated instead of one (known as a doubletail).
• HMPK – Halfmoon Plakat, a short-finned variety of Halfmoon.
• CT – Crowntail, as for crown-shaped fins; we can distinguish three internal varieties:
  • single ray (the most popular form)
  • double ray (rays grown in pairs)
  • overlapping ray traits (the rarest variety of domestic bettas with double rays crossing with each other) often called KCT King Crowntail
• HS – Halfsun, is formed by combining the CT variety with the HM variety. This is the rarest variety of betta, which is characterized by serrated rays that extend beyond the skin.
• DE – Dumbo Ear, elongated pectoral fins that resemble elephant ears.
• Giant – betta that has a much larger body (7-12 cm).
• Alien – a variety developed from crossbreeding forms of wild bettas, which is gaining more and more popularity due to its amazing metallic color combined with the body of a wild betta.

Tomasz Bień

Administrator of FB group Bojowniki Profesjonalnie and websites Bojowniki Profesjonalnie