Tussy's Betta

Adults of this fish grow to approximately 3 centimeters in length. Males are distinguished by a brighter, richer dark red coloration. Females, on the other hand, are gray with a characteristic pattern of two light, broad stripes running from head to tail. Their fins are transparent, sometimes with a slight bluish tint.

This fish originates from Southeast Asia, where it can be found in the peat swamps of the eastern part of the Malay Peninsula, within Malaysia. Their typical habitats are shallow bodies of water, hidden deep within tropical forests, with dense riparian vegetation. Daylight penetrates dimly due to the thick tree canopy. The bottom of such waters is usually covered with a thick layer of fallen leaves, branches, and snags. The water acquires a rich brown hue due to the high concentration of tannins released during the decomposition of organic matter. The dissolved mineral content here is generally low, and the pH level can reach extremely low values of 3.0–4.0. In certain seasons, the waters may dry up, leaving only moist mud with plant debris, but the fish are able to survive for some time in these conditions, awaiting the rains.

When choosing tank mates for these miniature fish, it is advisable to opt for other small species that can thrive in similar conditions. These may include small cyprinids, such as Rasboras, as well as Corydoras catfish and some loaches. In an aquarium environment, males compete for the attention of females. If the aquarium is small, it is advisable to keep one male with one or more females. In more spacious aquariums, where many hiding places are provided, cohabitation of several males is permissible.

For 2-3 fish, an aquarium of 40 L or more is generally considered optimal. The internal design of the aquarium can be chosen at the owner's discretion. It should be noted that many aquarists prefer to do without substrate and decorative elements for ease of maintenance. However, Tussy's Betta will appear most natural and harmonious in an environment resembling its natural waters. Such an arrangement usually includes a soft dark substrate, natural driftwood, and shade-loving plants, including floating ones. Bark and dried tree leaves will look organic. Lighting should be subdued. For long-term keeping of these fish, special attention should be paid to water composition: it is important to maintain acidic, soft pH and GH values. The presence of tannins has a positive effect; these can be added artificially using ready-made solutions or obtained naturally from decomposing leaves. Leaves from many temperate trees or Indian almond leaves are suitable for this purpose. The absence of internal current in the aquarium is important. Filters are most often the source of current; a simple air-driven sponge filter is quite sufficient for Bettas, as it does not create excessive flow but effectively cleans the water in small tanks. In their natural habitat, the diet of these fish consists of small insects and zooplankton. In aquarium conditions, they adapt well to popular dry foods. Freeze-dried, fresh, or frozen brine shrimp, as well as bloodworms, daphnia, small or crushed gammarus, and similar foods, will be an excellent addition.

In nature, these fish prefer to feed on small insects and zooplankton. In aquarium conditions, they adapt well to popular dry foods. Excellent dietary supplements include freeze-dried, fresh, or frozen brine shrimp, as well as bloodworms, daphnia, and small or crushed gammarus. Breeding Tussy's Betta is quite possible in a home aquarium, provided the necessary keeping conditions are met, and the diet is balanced and rich in protein. When the breeding period arrives, the male chooses a secluded spot among the plants and builds a bubble nest on the water's surface. After a brief courtship and characteristic mating dance, spawning occurs. The female leaves after laying her eggs, and the male remains to guard the nest. The incubation period for the eggs lasts approximately 1–2 days. The hatched fry remain in the nest for another 3–4 days until the yolk sac is completely absorbed. From this point, the young fish begin to move freely in search of food, and the male's role in protecting the offspring ends. It is important to note that adult Bettas usually do not exhibit cannibalism towards their own offspring. However, other aquarium inhabitants may pose a danger to the fry. For this reason, it is recommended to transfer the fry to a separate tank, ensuring identical water conditions there. This guarantees the safety of the young and significantly facilitates their feeding process. Microscopic foods should be used as the main diet for the fry: specialized powders and suspensions. If available, live infusoria and Artemia nauplii will be very beneficial.

Breeding in a home aquarium is quite feasible, provided the fish are kept in suitable conditions and receive a balanced, high-protein diet. When Bettas are ready to spawn, the male selects a specific spot among the vegetation and builds a bubble nest on the water's surface. After a brief courtship period and mating dance, the pair proceeds to lay eggs. The female usually swims away afterward, leaving the male to guard the nest. The incubation period for the eggs lasts 1–2 days. The hatched fry remain in the nest for another 3–4 days until the yolk sac is completely absorbed. After this time, the young begin to swim actively in search of food, and the male ceases to guard the clutch. It is worth noting that adult Bettas generally do not eat their own offspring. However, other fish species in a community tank may exhibit predatory instincts. Therefore, it is recommended to transfer the fry to a separate tank with identical water parameters, which will help ensure their safety and simplify the feeding process. The main diet for the fry should consist of microscopic foods: specialized powders, suspensions, and, if possible, live infusoria or Artemia nauplii. Information for this article can be found on fishbase.mnhn.fr and wikipedia.org.

The species is sensitive to water quality and requires strict adherence to parameters characteristic of peat swamps. If the pH shifts to the alkaline side or organic waste accumulates, the fish are susceptible to bacterial infections, fin rot, and mycoses. Prevention involves maintaining high acidity, regular water changes with purified water, and using natural conditioners (almond leaves, alder cones) that enrich the water with tannins and suppress pathogenic flora.

When purchasing, select active individuals with clean fins free of any signs of film or erosion. A healthy fish should show curiosity, have vibrant coloration, and a plump body without a sunken belly. Avoid individuals that constantly lie on the bottom, breathe heavily, or have clamped fins, as these can be signs of chronic stress or infectious diseases. In the store, the fish should be kept in conditions close to their natural environment, without excessive lighting.