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Description
Betta raja (King/Prince Betta)
This document outlines the care requirements and technical profile for:
Betta Raja (Betta raja), a distinct species of wild mouthbrooding fighting fish native to Indonesia. Unlike the common Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens), this species requires specific environmental conditions to thrive in a home aquarium.
1. Species Profile
Betta raja was scientifically described in 2005. It belongs to the Betta pugnax group, often referred to as “Forest Betta.”
- Origin:Â Endemic to the lowland swamp forests of Sumatra, Indonesia (specifically Jambi and Riau provinces).
- Adult Size: Typically reaches 6–7 cm (approximately 2.5 inches) in length, excluding fins.
- Lifespan: 3–5 years with optimal husbandry.
- Etymology:Â The name “Raja” is derived from the Malay word for “King” or “Prince”.
2. Tank Requirements and Water Chemistry
- Minimum Tank Size: 80cm x 30cm (approx. 70–80 litres) for a pair or small group.
- Temperature: 24°C to 27°C (75°F–80°F). For breeding, increase by 2°C.
- pH Range:Â Highly adaptable, ranging from 4.0 (acidic) to 7.0 (neutral).
- Hardness: 0–10° dGH (soft to medium-soft water).
- Filtration:Â A gentle sponge filter is preferred. Avoid high-flow internal filters as these fish originate from slow-moving or stagnant waters.
3. Habitat Setup and Decoration
- Substrate:Â Use dark sand or fine gravel to simulate the forest floor.
- Vegetation: Densely plant the aquarium with species like Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus), Anubias, and floating plants like Salvinia to provide shade.
- Cover: Incorporate Indian Almond Leaves (Ketapang) and bogwood. These release tannins, which tint the water and offer anti-fungal benefits essential for wild Betta health.
- Lid Security: A tight-fitting lid is mandatory, as Betta raja are exceptional jumpers.
4. Diet and Nutrition
As carnivores, Betta raja require a high-protein diet to maintain their metabolic health.
- Frozen/Live Foods:Â Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae.
- Dry Foods: High-quality Betta-specific pellets can be used as a staple if the fish are transitioned carefully from live foods.
- Feeding Schedule:Â Feed small portions twice daily. Ensure all food is consumed within two minutes to prevent water fouling.
5. Temperament and Compatibility
- Behaviour: Generally shy and peaceful compared to Betta splendens. They should not be kept with aggressive “fin-nippers”.
- Social Structure:Â Can be kept in pairs or small groups (harem style) provided there are enough hiding spots to prevent bullying.
- Mates: Suitable companions include peaceful rasboras, small loaches (like Kuhli loaches), or Corydoras catfish.
6. Breeding (Mouthbrooding)
Unlike many Bettas that build bubble nests, Betta raja is a paternal mouthbrooder.
- Process: The female typically initiates spawning. After the eggs are fertilised, the male carries them in his mouth for 12–18 days.
- Fry Care: Once released, fry can be fed infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp.
Convenient nationwide delivery; you’re only a click away!
Our nationwide delivery service makes it easy to receive your fish directly at your door, anywhere in the UK, for a flat rate of just £30. This convenient service allows you to order up to 10kg of fish, with the assurance that they will arrive in excellent condition. To make the fishes journey as comfortable as possible we use Oxygen in the fish bags and heat packs in all the boxes of fish we send out.
For your peace of mind we enclose a slip which will explain what to do in the event of a fish not traveling too well.
We use a licensed courier to deliver your fish directly to you door and will be with you by 1pm the next day.
Our delivery days are as follows:
Tuesday for Wednesday delivery
Wednesday for Thursday delivery
Thursday for Friday delivery
Please put your desired delivery day in the Order Notes on the Checkout page.
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