Betta Fishkeeping

Ask most people to describe their view of fish and they are likely to paint a picture of peace and tranquility. They would probably talk of the calming effect of a tank of fish gliding gracefully among the leaves of a planted aquarium.

Given this scenario they would probably find it difficult to imagine anything remotely approaching “fighting” where fish are concerned.

However, it is the inbuilt inability of the male Siamese Fighting Fish to tolerate another male anywhere near to it that has contributed to it’s popularity and development from the drab specimens that occur in the wild to the beautiful specimens we see in our pet shops today.

The fighting fish or Betta splendens as it is known scientifically, as I mentioned above, owes its name to the fact that when two males are put together they will usually begin fighting within minutes if not immediately.

In Thailand and other countries in South East Asia, Bettas have been selectively bred over many years to enhance both this pugnacious nature and the fish’s stamina.

Since gambling is one of the most popular pastimes in the region it is no surprise that large sums of money have been regularly placed on the outcome of bouts between prize males.

At the same time that breeders have been enhancing the fighting ability they have also been developing males with longer more flowing fins. Over time many more color varieties have been bred making the Siamese Fighter one of the great favorites among fish keepers.

There are few species of freshwater tropical fish that are more graceful, colorful or beautiful than a male Siamese Fighting Fish. Because of their pugnacious nature, many aquatic outlets keep these fish in small jars or plastic containers immersed in a larger tank that does not do them justice.

Set them up in a well-planted tank with other non-aggressive mates and you will see a very different fish indeed. Trying to keep more than one male in a tank will inevitably cause problems and even when a female is introduced she will be hounded if insufficient cover is not provided.

Once the pair are used to each other, things begin to settle down and spawning becomes a possibility.

Look out for the next post for more details of how to spawn the beauties. Check out the general links menu for more information on keeping and breeding Siamese Fighting Fish.