The incredibly beautiful Bettas have taken over the world of aquarium enthusiasts for a long time. With their vibrant colors and fluttering fins, these magnificent creatures have become a favorite of aquarists around the world. However, among the various betta species, one particular species of them all stands out as “alien” – the Alien betta. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of the Alien Betta, exploring the care needs, size, breeding methods, and genetic overview that make it so fascinating.
Unmasking The Alien Betta
The alien betta (Betta splendens), popularly named the dragon scale betta, is a unique and exotic species of betta fish. Its strange scales, which resemble the shapes of extraterrestrial creatures, make them look different from other species. This incredible scale makes the Alien Betta mystical and otherworldly, and a favorite of novice and experienced hydroelectric enthusiasts alike.
What are the Care Requirements for Alien Betta?
Like other bettas, the Alien betta requires a well-protected and favorable condition for optimal health. Here are a few care tips to keep your guest betta safe:
Tank Size: Provide a large aquarium with a capacity of at least 5 gallons for one Allien betta. Larger tanks are also better because they provide more swimming areas and more stable water parameters to a group of Allian bettas.
Water Quality: Improve water quality by changing a portion of the water regularly by using a reliable filter, because they are sensitive to poor water conditions.
Temperature And Ph: Keep the water temperature at 76°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C), with a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5. Consistent water parameters are important for the well-being of Alien Bettas.
Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding places and aquarium decorations such as dens, plants, and lots of trees. Alien Bettas love to explore their environment and will thrive in an elaborate layout.
Food: Offer a variety of foods including high-quality betta shells, and frozen or live foods such as salted shrimp, and red worms. A balanced diet will promote glowing skin and overall health of the Alien bettas.
Size And Lifespan of Alien Betta
The Alien betta shares a similar size with other betta species. The average length is 2.5 to 3 inches (6.4 to 7.6 cm). With proper care, Alien bettas can live 3 to 5 years, although some have been known to live much longer.
How do Alien Betta Breed?
Breeding an alien betta can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor. Before you attempt to breed them, make sure you have a good understanding of their needs and a well-prepared breeding plan, like:
Maintenance: Before breeding, keep male and female Alien bettas separately with nutrient-rich live or frozen foods to improve breeding health and prepare them for breeding.
Identify The Pair: Place the male and female in separate containers, so that they can see each other through a divider for a few days.
Breeding Tank Design: Set up a separate breeding tank with soft filters for the female to rest and put some floating plants or objects in it to make a bubble nest.
Fertility: Once a female shows vertical stripes on her body, it means she is ready to mate. Present a man’s territory with a woman, and he will begin the dance of love. After successful destruction, the male stores the fertilized eggs in a lung nest.
Egg Care: After spawning, separate the female and keep it away for some time to prevent aggression. The male will then look after the eggs until they are free swimmers.
Genetic Overview
The alien betta’s unique appearance is due to distinctive genetic traits. The most interesting case is the dragon scale model, which is caused by mutations affecting scale growth in fish. These scales are thick and overlap each other, giving the shell a distinctive appearance. In addition, their vibrant colors and fins variations are the result of different genes, selected by generations of experienced aquarists.
Final Thought
The exotic Alien betta with its amazing physiology and genetic traits is a unique addition to any aquarium. With care, the right conditions, and an understanding of their breeding needs, it will be a fulfilling experience for anyone interested. However, it is important to remember that responsible reproductive practices and care are critical to preserving the health and vigor of this otherworldly aquatic creature. So, whether you are an experienced Betta keeper or a beginner, adopting Alien Betta is sure to be the great adventure of a lifetime.
