White Plakat Opaque Roundtail

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Betta splendens
• Common Names: White Plakat Opaque Roundtail Betta, Plakat Betta
• Family: Osphronemidae
• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, where selective breeding has led to various color and fin shape variations, including the Plakat.

Physical Description

• Coloration: The White Plakat Opaque Roundtail features a beautiful pearly white or opaque body, often with a glossy sheen. Some individuals may exhibit subtle hints of other colors, adding to their visual appeal.
• Body Shape: These Bettas have a robust, compact body typical of Plakat varieties, which are bred for their shorter fins and stockier appearance.
• Fins:
  • Tail: The Roundtail fin is characterized by its wide, rounded shape, giving it a distinctive appearance. When fully spread, the tail forms a circular shape, creating an eye-catching display.
  • Dorsal and Anal Fins: These fins are typically shorter than those of other Betta varieties, contributing to the fish's overall streamlined look while still being visually appealing.
• Size: White Plakat Bettas usually grow to about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in length.

Behavior

• Temperament: White Plakat Bettas can be territorial and aggressive, particularly towards other males. Adequate space and hiding spots are essential if keeping multiple Bettas together.
• 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 engaging 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: White Plakat Opaque 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: White Plakat Bettas are bubble-nesters, meaning they create bubble nests at the water's surface for breeding.
• Nesting: During breeding, the male displays courtship behaviors to attract the female. Once she is receptive, they 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: White Plakat Opaque 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, White Plakat Bettas can live for about 3 to 5 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The White Plakat variety is popular among aquarists for its unique appearance and the elegance of its tail shape.
• Their engaging nature and active behavior make them enjoyable to observe, adding charm to any aquarium.