Plakat Fancy Roundtail

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Betta splendens
• Common Names: Plakat Betta, Roundtail Betta
• Family: Osphronemidae
• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, where selective breeding has led to the development of various beautiful forms, including the Plakat Fancy Roundtail.

Physical Description

• Coloration: Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including vibrant reds, blues, greens, yellows, and combinations thereof. The colors are often bright and striking, making them stand out in an aquarium setting.
• Body Shape: These Bettas have a stocky, muscular body typical of Plakat varieties, which gives them a robust appearance. The shorter body length is a key characteristic of this type.
• Fins:
  • Tail: The Roundtail tail is characterized by a round shape, which can resemble a fan or a disk when fully spread. This tail type is visually appealing and creates a beautiful display in the water.
  • Dorsal and Anal Fins: These fins are typically long and flowing, often complementing the tail fin in color and pattern. The overall fin structure enhances their elegance and charm.
• Size: Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas typically grow to about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in length.

Behavior

• Temperament: Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas can be territorial and aggressive, especially towards other males. It’s important to provide adequate space and hiding spots if keeping multiple Bettas.
• Social Structure: They can coexist with certain peaceful species in a community tank, but care should be taken to avoid keeping multiple males together unless in a spacious environment.
• Activity Level: These fish are active swimmers and display interesting behaviors, including fin flaring and exploration of their environment.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: In the wild, Betta fish inhabit shallow, slow-moving waters such as rice paddies, swamps, and marshes, where they can find vegetation for shelter.
• Aquarium Setup: A well-planted tank with ample hiding spots using live plants, driftwood, or decorations is ideal. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended, but larger tanks provide better water quality and space for swimming.

Diet

• Feeding: Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet. They 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: Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas are bubble-nesters, meaning they create bubble nests at the water's surface for breeding.
• Nesting: During breeding, the male will display courtship behaviors to attract the female. Once she is receptive, they will engage in a mating ritual.
• Fry Care: After spawning, the male cares for the eggs, which typically hatch within 24 to 48 hours. Once the fry are free-swimming, the male should be removed to prevent aggression towards them.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 5 gallons is recommended for a single male, with larger tanks being preferable for better water quality.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 6.0 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: Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas can be kept with other peaceful community fish, such as tetras, rasboras, and snails. Avoid aggressive species and other male Bettas to prevent fighting.
• Behavior with Others: Always monitor the tank for signs of aggression, especially when introducing new tank mates or keeping multiple males.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Plakat Fancy Roundtail Bettas can live for about 3 to 5 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The unique combination of the Roundtail structure and vibrant colors makes these Bettas particularly appealing to aquarists.
• Their compact size and playful nature make them popular among fish enthusiasts.