betta

betta

Betta splendens is a fish originating from Southeast Asia (Indochina) of Osphronemidae family. The Betta is also known as Siamese fighting fish (Brazil) or Combatant (Portugal) due to its aggression against fish of the same species. This aggressiveness there is predominantly in males of the species, so that a male placed with gentle fish species coexist without problem. On the other hand, if placed in small tanks even become aggressive females with one, usually the larger, assuming the dominant role and attacking other.

In its wild form Bettas have a mild color (tan) that blends with the environment and with some shades of red and blue in the fins are smaller and less aggressive than domestic forms. In nature can be found on the verges of paddy fields, streams and small lakes. The social system of this kind is a territorial system in which during the breeding season (the rainy season) the males defend a territory formed around a "nest-bubble", which they themselves build and maintain. Females visit the males that courting until they release the eggs. Then and after fertilization, the males lay eggs in the nest and drive the females of the territory.

male

female

colors