Norton Aquatics: Content / Labarynth-fishes / Siamese Fighting Fish

Siamese Fighting Fish - Betta splendens

Kept alone or in a community aquarium, every fish-keeper should own a Fighting Fish at least once.

The Fighting Fish is one of the most recognizable fish in the aquarium hobby. It is indeed one of several species of Betta spp. that are used in betting sports in the far east due to its tendency to attack and fight rival males, sometimes, to the death.

The Fighting Fish hails from Cambodia and Thailand where it can be found in the shallow waters of streams and rivers as well as rice paddies. Due to its international popularity, a large variety of artificially bred strains are available. It is very rare to encounter a male fighter that still has its short natural fins.

Although violent towards other males and occasionally females, this beauty only occasionally interferes with other species. It usually picks an area to create its bubble-nest and tends to it religiously usually leaving its nest to feed or to chase another fish that has come too close to its nest. They do tend to be nipped at by other fish such as barbs and tetras who just cannot resist a taste of the Fighters long flowing fins. This behaviour can reduce a once vibrant fish into a bedraggled, listless wreck hanging below the waters surface in the corner of the aquarium. Be carefull what you mix Fighters with, if it nips it should not be allowed close to a Fighter.

These fish originate from and are farmed en masse in the far east. Even though the subject has been broached with many a pet-store owner, many pet-shops still insist on selling them as room-temperature tolerant fish and even cold-water fish, in a small container that is totally unsuitable for any fish to live in.

The Fighting fish grows to 6.5cm (2.5") is easy to care for nutritionally and will take any small foods. It is best to keep one by itself in a gently filtered and densely planted, heated aquarium - you will have a happy Fighter in no time.

It also helps to be aware that most fighting fish are sold as fully grown adults even though they rarely live past eighteen months, as this is the standard duration of their life-cycle.

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