Betta balunga - Betta balunga

Scientific name: Betta balunga

Common name: Betta balunga

Family: Osphronemidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 9 - 14 cm (3.54 - 5.51 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.2 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 16°N (142.86 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 27 °C (69.8 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Betta balunga thrives on a varied diet. While quality flake can serve as a staple, supplementing their meals with live or frozen foods is essential for their health. Ideal choices include bloodworms, daphnia, and white worms. Adding brine shrimp and mosquito larvae can further enhance their diet, providing the necessary nutrients to keep them vibrant and healthy. Providing a diverse diet ensures optimal health and enhances their natural coloration. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, and be mindful to avoid overfeeding, as leftover food can degrade water quality.

Origin

Betta balunga originates from the peat swamps and slow-moving streams of Borneo in Southeast Asia. These habitats are characterized by tannin-rich blackwater, soft acidic to neutral water, and dense vegetation, which provide shelter and spawning areas. The leaf litter found in these regions releases tannins, lowering the pH and creating the dark water conditions that these fish prefer. Incorporating similar conditions in captivity helps them thrive and exhibit natural behaviors.

Sexing

Male Betta balunga are more colorful and have longer, more elaborate fins compared to females. These distinctions become more pronounced during breeding periods when males display their most vibrant coloration. Females are generally smaller and have shorter, less ornate fins, making them easier to identify in a group setting.

Breeding

Breeding Betta balunga involves a unique ritual. The male and female engage in an embrace near the substrate, during which eggs are laid. The female collects the eggs in her mouth but spits them out for the male to catch and brood. The male takes sole responsibility for guarding and brooding the eggs until the fry are released. To encourage breeding, maintain water temperatures between 24-26°C (75.2-78.8°F) and ensure the pH is slightly acidic, around 5.5-6.5. The addition of floating plants and fine-leafed vegetation provides shelter and reduces stress during the breeding process. Once free-swimming, the fry can be fed crushed flake, infusoria, or newly hatched brine shrimp to support their rapid growth.

Lifespan

With proper care, Betta balunga can live for 2-3 years in captivity. Stable water conditions, a nutritious diet, and a stress-free environment are essential to maximize their lifespan. Regular water changes and maintaining a clean tank environment will also contribute to their longevity.

Short Description

Betta balunga is a peaceful and captivating species, ideal for well-planted tanks with subdued lighting. Adding floating plants, such as Amazon Frogbit or Salvinia, can help replicate their natural habitat and provide a sense of security. They can be kept in groups or as part of a community tank with other peaceful species, provided that the tank is spacious enough to avoid territorial disputes. Their calm temperament, unique breeding behavior, and striking appearance make them a rewarding choice for aquarists of all experience levels.