Betta Pugnax

Datasheet

General Description

The Betta Pugnax, a species within the Betta genus, is known for its relatively large head, brown live coloration with green or blue iridescent spots, and distinct male opercle scales. It can be distinguished by features like the presence of a chin bar and transverse bars in the caudal fin of males. This species, like others in the Betta genus, has evolved to thrive in various environments, from stagnant ditches to acidic peat swamp forests, equipped with a labyrinth organ for breathing atmospheric air.

Aquarium Setup

The Betta Pugnax thrives in a fully-decorated aquarium with driftwood, roots, branches, and dried leaf litter for cover and shelter. It prefers dim lighting and acidic water conditions with soft water. Aquatic plants like Microsorum and Cryptocoryne species, along with floating vegetation, are beneficial. Filtration should be gentle, and the tank well-covered to allow occasional access to humid air above the water surface.

Behaviour

Not suited for standard community tanks, the Betta Pugnax is best kept alone or with very peaceful species. It is not overly aggressive and can be kept in pairs or small groups, provided proper research is done beforehand. Some small cyprinids and loaches from similar environments are suitable tank mates.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, Betta Pugnax feeds on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates. In captivity, they can be fed dried foods once accepted but should primarily receive live or frozen foods like Daphnia and Artemia to maintain optimal health. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent obesity.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

This species exhibits paternal mouthbrooding behavior during reproduction. The male cares for the fertilized eggs in his mouth until they hatch into free-swimming fry. Males grow larger than females, exhibit more iridescent scaling on the head, and have more extended fins.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, the Betta Pugnax inhabits shallow, flowing parts of clear water hill streams with sandy substrates and submerged leaf litter. They can also be found in forest swamps shaded by dense vegetation and stained by humic acids. Habitat destruction due to factors like oil palm plantations has led to their presence in modified environments like ditches and channels.