Crowntail Dragon Scale

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Betta splendens
• Common Names: Crowntail Dragon Scale Betta, Crowntail Betta, Dragon Scale Betta
• Family: Osphronemidae
• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Cambodia.

Physical Description

• Coloration: Crowntail Dragon Scale Bettas are often recognized by their vibrant colors, which can include shades of blue, red, green, and purple. The Dragon Scale variant has a unique shimmering quality due to the reflective nature of its thick, scaled body.
• Body Shape: They typically have a long, slender body shape that is laterally compressed, characteristic of the Betta species.
• Fins: The crowntail feature gives them a spiky tail appearance with elongated rays, creating a dramatic crown-like effect. This fin structure adds to their aesthetic appeal.
• Scales: The defining feature of the Dragon Scale Betta is the thick, iridescent scales that create a striking visual effect. These scales often have a metallic sheen, enhancing the overall appearance of the fish.

Behavior

• Temperament: Like other Betta varieties, Crowntail Dragon Scale Bettas can be territorial and aggressive, particularly towards other male Bettas. They are best kept alone or with non-aggressive fish.
• Social Structure: While they may exhibit aggression towards males of their species, they can coexist with certain peaceful tank mates in spacious environments.
• Activity Level: These fish are generally active and display engaging behaviors, such as flaring their fins and exploring their surroundings.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: In the wild, Betta fish inhabit shallow waters, rice paddies, and floodplains with abundant vegetation that provides shelter and breeding grounds.
• Aquarium Setup: It is essential to provide a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots using plants, driftwood, or decorations. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended, with a gentle filter to avoid strong currents, as Bettas prefer calm waters.

Diet

• Feeding: Crowntail Dragon Scale Bettas are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet. They will accept high-quality Betta pellets, flakes, freeze-dried foods, and occasional live or frozen foods (such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia).
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day, providing only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Crowntail Dragon Scale Bettas are bubble-nesters, meaning the male constructs a bubble nest at the water's surface where he will care for the eggs after spawning.
• Nesting: To breed successfully, provide a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants where the female can hide. The male will display elaborate courtship behavior to attract the female.
• Fry Care: After the eggs hatch (usually within 24 to 48 hours), the male will care for the fry until they are free-swimming. After that, he should be removed to prevent aggression.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 5 gallons is recommended for a single Crowntail Dragon Scale Betta.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: 5 to 15 dGH
• Filtration: Use a gentle filter to maintain water quality. Regular water changes (about 25% weekly) are essential to keep the water clean and healthy.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Crowntail Dragon Scale Bettas can be kept with peaceful community fish such as certain tetras, rasboras, and snails. Avoid keeping them with other male Bettas, aggressive species, or fish with long fins that may provoke aggression.
• Behavior with Others: Monitor the tank closely for signs of aggression, especially when introducing new tank mates.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Crowntail Dragon Scale Bettas can live for about 3 to 5 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The unique combination of the Crowntail and Dragon Scale features makes these Bettas highly sought after by aquarists for their beauty and striking appearance.
• Bettas have a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe air from the surface, making them adaptable to various aquatic environments.