Betta fish have over 70 different varieties, each showcasing their uniqueness by exhibiting different coloration, designs, patterns, and behavior. Some of these varieties are common, while others are rare to breed and stock. Among the more uncommon ones, the orange dalmatian betta fish is one.
Orange betta fish, in general, is a rare color combination, and it is further ramified into different sub-categories. Among such sub-divisions, the orange dalmatian betta fish is the rarest. An orange dalmatian betta fish has a pale orange body coloration with prominent orange spots on the fins. Orange pigmentation is irregular in bettas because these kinds of bettas do not generally breed true and take a considerable time to get right.
About The Orange Dalmatian Betta Fish
Dalmatian betta fish are part of the betta splendens group of betta fish and are one of the rarest betta colors to get. There is quite a bit of genetics involved in orange color being rare in bettas, but it can certainly be achieved if the equation is correct.
Firstly, let us highlight some key factors about the orange dalmatian betta fish.
Appearance
An orange dalmatian possesses a pale orange-colored body with dark orange spots on the fins. For the same reason, an orange dalmatian is also sometimes called ‘apricot spots’. It is just like your regular betta fish in appearance. The only difference is the body color.
Breeding
As stated earlier, the main reason behind orange dalmatian betta being rare is that orange bettas do not usually breed true. Additionally, it takes a reasonable amount of time to get the cross-breeding right. The only possibility of getting orange dalmatian arises when you breed two bettas of different colors.
Coloration in a betta fish is caused by the insemination of three chromatophores pigments – red, yellow, and black. Thus, bettas show forth different colors due to the combination of these pigments. To achieve the orange color, a mixture of red and yellow is required.
There have been countless experiments on the breeding of orange dalmatian bettas. However, experienced betta breeders have suggested the usage of a solid orange betta, and a red dragon betta fish get the best chance of getting a pure orange dalmatian betta fish.
Other Orange Betta Fish
As mentioned earlier, orange coloration in a betta fish is a rare phenomenon. Although producing an orange-colored betta fish is a complex process, it is possible. Besides the orange dalmatian betta fish, there are other betta fish that show such orange coloration.
Solid Orange Betta
As the name suggests, a solid orange betta fish has solid orange color throughout the body without any spots or patterns. The solid orange betta fish can be considered the original orange betta as all other orange bettas originate from this betta.
Like other betta fish, the solid orange betta fish is also available in different tail shapes like veiltail, crowntail, half-moon, and plakat. With continuous orange pigmentation throughout the body and the fins, the solid orange betta is undoubtedly one of its kind.
Orange Koi Betta
Another wonderful breed of betta fish is the koi betta. Koi betta fish fall under the marble-type category. This means that they show a combination of three colors – white, black, and orange. Moreover, koi bettas show traits of a galaxy betta. This signifies that one cannot predict the color of the fish being bred.
Orange Crowntail Betta
Even though finding a crowntail betta fish in the wild is quite common and is an easy task, finding an orange crowntail betta fish is an overwhelming job. It is pretty rare, and if you are looking for one, then the best chance of finding one is any online platform.
Keeping An Orange Dalmatian Betta Fish
Tank Conditions
When it comes to tank requirements, the first thing that comes to mind is the required tank size. The rule of the thumb is that every inch of a fish requires at least one gallon of water. An orange dalmatian betta fish requires a tank with a minimum capacity of 5 gallons.
On the other hand, a larger tank is usually recommended because it is easier to manage due to the delayed water changes and adequate swimming space for the betta fish. You will also need plenty of tank decor, including plants, driftwood, caves, and so on.
With the addition of the decors, your betta fish will have plenty of hiding places in the tank. Just make sure there are no sharp edges in the tank decorations that could injure the betta fish’s delicate fins. A darker background is generally recommended as a nice contrast is developed.
Water Parameters
Water temperature between 74 and 82 degrees F is considered ideal for a betta fish. It is recommended to use a thermometer to check the water’s temperature periodically. If the temperature is not within the limit, installing a water heater becomes necessary.
An orange dalmatian betta fish requires a slightly acidic environment. Their water should have a pH of between 5 and 6.5. Anything outside of this range will almost certainly stress your betta fish. Get a water pH kit from any fish store to test the pH level of the water in the tank.
Dietary Needs
A betta fish generally follows a carnivorous diet that has a meaty base. As a result, this betta fish requires a high-protein diet. A betta fish’s diet should include betta pellets, betta flakes, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
You can also feed your betta fish live foods like earthworms and bloodworms. Bloodworms, in particular, are beneficial for an orange dalmatian as it possesses color-enhancing properties. Overfeeding a betta fish can cause bloating and constipation. It would be best if you only feed your betta fish once or twice a day.
FAQs on Dalmatian Betta
Is dalmatian betta rare?
YES. An orange dalmatian betta is one of the most challenging breeds to come across as it is pretty tricky to breed one, and even if all the parameters are correct, the breeding process takes a lot of time.
How much does an orange dalmatian betta cost?
An orange betta fish can cost anything between $25 to $100 as it is a rare color to find in bettas. A dalmatian betta, orange in color, will be priced within this range but a little higher as it is relatively more infrequent.
Where to buy an orange dalmatian betta?
You will find no luck finding an orange dalmatian betta in the wild. Moreover, it is rather challenging to see it in any pet store. The best chance of getting an orange dalmatian is from any online site or outlet.
Can I keep a dalmatian molly with a dalmatian betta?
Yes. Mollies and betta fish get along very well. They require similar water conditions and tank parameters. Just make sure to give both the fish enough space to swim in as bettas tend to get aggressive towards tank mates.
Red dalmatian betta, how rare are they?
Unlike orange dalmatian bettas, red ones are relatively more common and may be readily available in your nearest pet store.
Final Thoughts
Orange-colored betta fish is undoubtedly one of the rarest bettas to find. They are incredibly tricky to breed correctly, and they are usually not available in their pure forms. Even though they are relatively expensive on purchase, they are certainly a delight in the owner’s eyes.
