Betta fish can be found in more than 70 different varieties, each with its own unique set of features. These betta breeds may be distinguished based on color, pattern, or breeding habits. Among the more popular betta types is the betta albimarginata.
Betta albimarginata is undoubtedly one of the most attractive looking betta fish, and they are characterized by a black-colored head and a yellowish-orange body color. They can live about 2 to 4 years if proper care is taken of them. They are mouthbrooders in nature and are excellent jumpers. They are also called the whiteseam betta fish, and they are among the listed names in the high risk of extinction prepared by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
About Betta Albimarginata
Betta albimarginata, or the whiteseam fighter or strawberry betta, comes from the shallow waters of the rainforest in Borneo. In the wild, the waters they live in are heavily planted and filled with leaf litters and roots. They are called the whiteseam betta fish for obvious reasons.
They are characterized by a white pigmentation at the end of their tails. Moreover, they have a blackhead, orange operculum, and a broad white distal band with fin patterns. Their coloration is a significant reason why betta albimarginata is known as a strawberry betta. They are relatively tiny fish (about 2 inches in length). In the case of betta albimarginata, the male and female look almost similar.
However, you can distinguish between a male and a female betta albimarginata by looking at the body color. A male betta albimarginata has more of an orange-colored exterior, while a female one is more brownish in color. Additionally, a male albimarginata possesses a broader head than the female one.
Like most betta fish, a male whiteseam betta fish is brighter in color than a female one. There is one thing common for all bettas: their temperament. Likewise, betta albimarginata are also moderately aggressive and need their own space.
This kind of betta fish is generally kept in pairs for breeding purposes. These bettas can be kept in community tanks as well as long as all the tank requirements are fulfilled. They do not require too much care and are pretty low-maintenance. They are very nice jumpers too. Thus, a proper lid must be attached to your tank at all times.
Taking Care Of Betta Albimarginata
As mentioned earlier, whiteseam betta fish are pretty low-maintenance and do not require an excessive amount of care. However, this does not entail that you should totally be ignorant of the nurturing process. You should ensure that the water parameters and tank conditions are just right. Otherwise, it could stress the fish out.
Here are some things to consider while rearing a whiteseam betta fish.
Water Parameters
The water parameters must be optimal for the betta fish to be stress-free. When setting up a tank for your betta fish, water temperature, pH level, ammonia and chlorine levels, and water hardness must all be considered. If there is any discrepancy in any of the listed variables, it can cause stress to your betta.
An albimarginata prefers water that is between 76 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus. They prefer warmer water. To ensure that the water temperature in the tank is at the optimum level, you should install a working water heater in your tank, significantly if the room temperature does not fall within the range.
A whiteseam betta fish requires a slightly acidic environment with a pH level of 6.8 to 7.5. To achieve this, you may add dried almond leaves to the tank to make the tank water softer by introducing tannins into the tank.
The amounts of ammonia, nitrates, chlorine, and chloramine must all be close to zero. Any hike in the levels of these elements can prove to be fatal for your betta fish. To ensure this, make sure to conduct water changes periodically (about 15-20% at least once a week).
It is also recommended that you add a water filter to your tank to uphold the water quality in the tank and optimize the water flow for the betta fish that prefer a slow-moving current. You should regularly check the factors mentioned above to ensure that your betta lives a happy and long life.
Tank Requirements
Albimarginatas are generally kept together in pairs for breeding purposes. To ensure that the breeding process goes smoothly, first ensure that the tank is big enough to hold a pair. You would need at least a 10-gallon tank to host a pair and an additional 5 gallons for each addition of a pair.
Bettas also like hiding behind tank objects. Thus, it is recommended that you add a sufficient amount of tank decors like plants, caves, driftwood, etc., to provide your betta fish with an ample amount of hiding spots. Just make sure not to add tank objects that have sharp edges as they can damage the fins of the betta fish. A proper substrate, generally gravel-based or sand-based, is also needed.
Dietary Needs
Betta albimarginata, like all betta fish, are born carnivores and require a meat-based diet that is high in protein. It is generally advised to prepare a balanced diet and a feeding schedule for your betta fish. An ideal betta fish diet consists of quality betta flakes, betta pellets, bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp.
Betta fish are highly susceptible to being overfed as they are voracious eaters. Thus, make sure to feed your betta fish in moderation. You should feed your betta fish only once or twice every day and only that much amount which it can finish within 40 to 50 seconds.
Betta Albimarginata VS Betta Channoides
| Basis | Betta Albimarginata | Betta Channoides |
|---|---|---|
| Dorsal fins | – Has a dark and black dorsal fin | – Has an entirely red dorsal fin |
| Water temperature | – 76 to 85 degrees F | – 72 to 80 degrees F |
| Temperament | – Relatively more aggressive | – Calmer nature |
FAQs On Betta Albimarginata
How long do betta albimarginata live?
Betta albimarginata lifespan ranges from 2 to 3 years if sufficient care is provided.
How many times should I feed a betta albimarginata fry?
As they are at the early growth stage, a betta fry must be fed around 2 to 3 times every day.
How to breed betta albimarginata?
It would help if you prepared a tank specifically designed for breeding purposes. Albimarginatas are mouthbrooders. The male carries the fertilized eggs in its mouth until it is hatched.
What fish can I keep with a betta albimarginata?
Betta albimarginata tank mates include:
– Neon Tetras
– Corydoras Catfish
– Plecos
– Ember Tetras
– Kuhli Loaches
Final Thoughts
Thus, if you want to add a betta ablimarginata to your tank, you should go for it as they are relatively low-maintenance and have a showy appearance. As long as all the tank requirements are fulfilled, you should not have any problem nurturing a whiteseam fighting fish.
