Edit Betta pugnax
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Name
Scientific name
Betta pugnax
Described by
Authority Cantor, Year 1849, Bracketed
Family
Osphronemidae
Common names
Not recorded
Photograph credits
All 11 credited
Summary
Betta pugnax is a paternal mouthbrooding labyrinth fish from much of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, described from Penang. It lends its…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
70mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 80 cm, Minimum depth 30 cm, Water movement Low: still or sluggish water
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 22–28°C, pH 4–7.5
Hardness
1–10dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Species tank only
Social needs
Not recorded
Community suitability
Not for a community
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Malaysia, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, Batang Padang, Bera, Jelai, Johor, Kahang, Ketil, Lenggor, Muar, Pelus, Perak, Sedili Besar
Writing
Etymology
Betta: from ikan betah, the vernacular Malay for species of this genus. pugnax: from the Latin pugnax, meaning 'combative'.
Distribution
Distributed throughout much of Peninsular Malaysia with records from the states of Kedah, Terengganu, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Selangor and Johor. It is also kno…
Habitat
In Penang it has been collected from shallow (10 – 80 cm deep), flowing parts of clear water hill streams and foothills. The substrate is most often sandy with…
Aquarium size
An aquarium with base measurements of 80 ∗ 30 cm or equivalent is large enough for a pair or small group.
Maintenance
Can be maintained in a fully-decorated aquarium although many breeders prefer not to use a substrate for ease of maintenance. Driftwood roots and branches can …
Water conditions
Not written yet
Diet
Likely to prey on aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates in nature. Captive fish will normally accept dried products once they are recognised as edible, but sho…
Behaviour and compatibility
Not recommended for the standard community aquarium. Its care requirements and disposition mean it is best kept alone or with very peaceful species. Some small…
Sexual dimorphism
Males grow larger, possess a greater amount of iridescent scaling on the head, a broader head shape, and more extended fins than females.
Reproduction
Paternal mouthbrooder. Ideally organise a separate aquarium for breeding purposes, unless the fish are already being maintained alone. The aquarium should have…
Notes
This species lends its name to the B. pugnax complex of closely-related species within the genus, an assemblage within which members share the following combin…
References
References
5 on this profile