The Wild Betta fish is a common and popular aquarium fish. Actually, the Betta is a large genus of small, active, often colorful, freshwater ray-finned fish. And it belongs to the gourami family. It is very popular and often kept as an aquarium pet.
They are small in size, colorful, and look very beautiful. They are very popular fish mainly due to their color variety and ease of caring. Although, you should not keep both male and female Wild Betta fish in the same tank.
The Wild Betta fish are very important and they play an essential role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations. However, read more information about this fish species below.
What is Wild Betta fish?
The Wild Betta fish are actually the natural, non-domesticated relatives of the popular Betta fish kept in aquariums. They are native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam. They inhabit shallow waters in the wild (like paddy field, ponds, and marshes).
The Wild Bettas typically have more muted colors and less extravagant fins than their brightly colored and fin-enhanced aquarium counterparts. The Wild Bettas are known for their territorial behavior, especially the males. The males can exhibit aggressive tendencies towards each other. The scientific name for Wild Betta or common Betta fish is Betta splendens.
Characteristics
Like all other Betta varieties, the Wild Betta fish has several distinct physical characteristics. These fish tend to have a more streamlined body shape as compared to the exaggerated forms of many domesticated varieties. The Wild Bettas have a more pronounced operculum as compared to the domesticated varieties.
They typically have shorter, less flamboyant fins. And they typically have more subdued colors. They often display shades of green, brown, or gray. Their eyes are usually larger in size relatively to their body. In terms of size, these fish can reach about 2.5 to 3 inches in length.
Different Types
There are many species within the Betta genus. Each of these types has unique characteristics, care requirements and temperaments. Some most common types are Betta splendens, Betta imbellis, Betta mahachaiensis, Betta pugnax, Betta rutilans, Betta coccina, Betta albonotata, Betta stiktos etc.
Diet
The Wild Betta fish have a varied diet depending on their environment. They are primarily feed on insects, zooplankton, plant matter, and small crustaceans. But in aquarium environment, you can feed them Betta fish food which are especially formulated for them.
Reproduction
The male Wild Betta fish display vibrant colors and engages in elaborate courtship behaviors (such as flaring his fins and swimming in circles around the females). This display helps to attract the female fish’s attention and signals her readiness to breed.
If the female is receptive, she will approach the male. The male builds a bubble nest using his saliva, which floats on the surface of the water. This nest serves as a safe place for the eggs.
The male fish wraps his body around the female during spawning, and the female releases her eggs. The female typically releases 20-50 eggs at a time, and the male fertilizes the eggs immediately. The male collects the eggs in his mouth after successful fertilization, and place them in the bubble nest. The male will guard the nest, ensuring the eggs stay safe from predators and are well-maintained.
The eggs will typically hatch within 24 to 48 hours, depending on water temperature and conditions. The fry remain in the nest for a few days until they are strong enough to swim freely. And the male continues to protect the fry for a short period after they leave the nest.
Behavior
The male Wild Betta fish are known for their territorial and aggressive behavior. The males fiercely defend their territory, often displaying vibrant colors and flaring their fins to intimidate rivals during mating rituals. They also engage in elaborate courtship displays, including swimming in circles and building bubble nests for attractive the females.
Caring
The Wild Betta fish are strong and hardy and they require relatively less caring and other management. Although, taking additional caring of these fish will help to keep them stay healthy and active.
Create a suitable environment for them. Use a tank of at least 5 gallons with plenty of hiding spots. Also maintain a temperature between 76°F to 8°F. Change the water regularly to ensure good water quality. Feed them high quality pellets, dried or frozen foods, and provide them plant matter occasionally. Don’t keep more than one male in a single tank.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Wild Betta fish is typically between 3 to 5 years.
Catching
For catching Wild Betta fish, approach the area (where they live) slowly to avoid scaring them away. And then gently scoop them up with the net. Always check local regulations and consider the ecological impact of catching and removing fish from their natural environment.
Uses
These fish are mainly used in aquarium for raising as pets.
Price
Its not possible for us to tell the exact price of these fish. Because exact price of these fish depends on numerous factors such as species, location and availability in your area. Generally, average price of these fish in the United States is typically between $10 to $30. Although, rarer species might cost more, and sometimes exceeding $50.
Frequently asked questions
People often ask several questions regarding this fish species. Here we are trying to list the most common and frequently asked questions about Wild Betta fish.
What do Wild Betta fish eat?
Diet of Wild Bettas primarily consists of insects, zooplankton, crustaceans, and plant matter. In aquarium environment, you can feed them high-quality pellets, frozen or freeze-dried foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter.
What do Wild Betta fish look like?
The Wild Betta fish are less colorful than their domesticated counterparts. They typically display shades of green, brown, or gray. Their body shape is typically streamlined, with shorter, less flamboyant fins than the aquarium varieties.
Where are Wild Betta fish found?
The Wild Betta fish are primarily found in Southeast Asia. It is particularly found in countries like Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is mainly found in shallow, slow-moving waters such as paddy fields, swamps, ponds, and marshes.
