艳抟鱼

Overview

The paternal mouthbrooder Betta pulchra survives in remnant blackwater habitats in Johor. It needs sheltered, quiet accommodation. Green gill-cover iridescence and tail crossbars are useful visible identification features.

Distribution & habitat

Described from Pontian in southern Peninsular Malaysia, it appears restricted to southwestern Johor. Much former peat-swamp forest has been converted to oil-palm, pineapple, and rubber plantations. Fish occupy remaining blackwater areas, particularly beneath overhanging plants along irrigation canals.

Aquarium setup

Provide a minimum footprint around 80 × 30 cm for a pair or small group. Wood, roots, pots, and tubes make shaded refuges. Leaves add shelter and microbial growth that can supplement fry nutrition. Allow wood and leaves to tint the water, maintaining suitably soft, acidic conditions.

Use subdued lighting, shade-tolerant plants, and floating cover. A gently running sponge filter is sufficient. Secure the lid against jumping and retain humid air over the water for breathing.

Diet & feeding

Likely wild foods include insects, small invertebrates, and zooplankton. Dry food is generally accepted after recognition, with regular live or frozen Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms providing variety. Small crickets or fruit flies can be offered after feeding them fish food or plant matter. Avoid overfeeding.

Behaviour & compatibility

A dedicated tank is generally preferable. Large or energetic companions may cause intimidation and food competition. Any tankmates should be peaceful and suited to similar conditions. Pairs and small groups are possible, with groups offering more social interaction.

Sexual dimorphism

Males grow larger, have broader heads and longer fins, and show more extensive iridescent scaling.

Breeding

A separate breeding setup with a close-fitting lid preserves the warm, damp air needed for labyrinth development. Prolonged courtship may include embraces without eggs before spawning begins. Eggs rest on the male's anal fin, are collected by the female, and are spat into the water for the male to catch. Repeated cycles leave him holding the entire clutch.

Stress or inexperience may cause the male to swallow eggs or release them prematurely. Leaving the female and existing companions in place generally avoids disturbance from capture. Incubation takes around 9–16 days. Released fry can be moved or raised with the adults, though predation may reduce numbers if they remain.

Offer microworms and Artemia nauplii in small, varied meals two or three times daily. Avoid excessive reliance on Artemia and use small, regular water changes.

Notes

A chin mark, tail crossbars, a narrow lance-shaped male tail, and green gill-cover scales aid identification. Placement of some relatives in species groups remains disputed. The labyrinth organ allows supplementary air breathing.