The betta fish is undoubtedly one of the most appealing aquarium fish. With its colorful body and dazzling colored fins, the betta fish is unquestionably one of the most popular aquarium fish. Betta fish come in a variety of colors and sizes. The betta unimaculata is the most unique among them, and it is nothing like a typical betta.
When we talk about a betta fish, we generally mean betta splendens, the most common betta type. However, betta unimaculata is different from your regular betta fish. Firstly, it can grow up to 4.5 to 5 inches in length, more than the average betta height of 2.5 inches. Secondly, the betta unimaculata also requires different tank conditions as compared to your average betta. It is also relatively docile and peaceful, unlike the aggressive nature of most of the other betta fish.
About The Betta Unimaculata
Betta unimaculata belong to the Unimaculata species complex that comprises a variety of betta fish with identical appearance and behavior. It originates from the waters of Howong and Kajan in southeast Asia. For the same reason, the betta unimaculata is also sometimes called the Howong betta fish.
As stated earlier, this type of betta fish is different from your normal betta splendens, both in looks and behavior. Betta splendens generally grow about 1.5 to 2.5 inches in length and have bulky bodies. On the other hand, betta unimaculata can grow up to 4.5 to 5 inches in length and has a rather skinny and elongated body.
The color of the unimaculata depends on the region of origin. Although, such kinds of betta fish are primarily grey or brown with blue or green splashes over the body. Besides the significant differences between betta unimaculata and betta splendens, there are some similarities as well.
How to distinguish between a male betta unimaculata and a female one? For instance, similar to your regular betta fish, female betta unimaculatas are rather dull-colored and have relatively more little fins. Female unimaculatas can be identified by their two longitudinal stripes over the body. Male betta unimaculatas usually have blue or green splashes with wider fins.
Unimaculatas are relatively peaceful and calm compared to your typical betta fish, which is characterized by an aggressive and territorial nature. They can coexist with different tank mates and will spend most of their time searching and scavenging for food in the tank.
Keeping A Betta Unimaculata
Before you add a betta unimaculata to your aquarium, there are a few things to think about. They are pretty easy to care for, so you should not have any issues. Water temperature, pH level, water quality, and water current are all factors that affect tank conditions. All of these conditions must be followed to maintain your betta fish stress-free.
Tank Requirements
The first thing that springs to mind is the required tank size when it comes to tank requirements. According to standard practice, every inch of a fish requires at least one gallon of water. A tank with a minimum capacity of 5 gallons is required for betta unimaculatas.
On the other hand, a larger tank is usually advised because the delayed water changes and ample swimming room for the betta fish make it easier to manage. In addition to a large tank, you will need plenty of tank decor, like plants, driftwood, caves, and so on.
Your betta fish will have lots of hiding spots in the tank with the addition of the decors. Just ensure that the tank decorations do not have sharp edges that could harm the betta fish’s delicate fins. Also, check to see if your tank has a lighting system.
Betta unimaculatas do not need a substrate, but a sand substrate with leaves will help keep the water pH level at a minimum and provide you with a nice view of the betta fish. To save a pair of male and female betta unimaculata, you will need a tank that is at least 10-gallons.
Water Parameters
A unimaculata requires water with a temperature of 70 to 78 degrees F. You can control the temperature of the water by keeping it within this range by utilizing a thermometer to check the temperature of the water and a working store-bought water heater.
A betta unimaculata fish requires somewhat acidic water. The pH of their water should be between 5 and 7.5. Anything outside of this range will most likely cause your betta fish to get stressed. To test the pH level of the water in the tank, get a water pH kit from any fish store.
Dietary Needs
The food of a unimaculata is primarily carnivorous, similar to that of other betta fish. As a result, a high-protein diet is required for this betta fish. Betta pellets, betta flakes, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms should all be included in a betta fish’s diet.
Bloating and constipation can result from overfeeding a betta fish. Your betta fish should only be fed once or twice a day. You can also feed earthworms and tubifex worms to your unimaculata. Feed your betta only the amount of food it can consume in 45 seconds.
FAQs Related To The Betta Unimaculata
How much do betta unimaculata cost?
A standard betta unimaculata can cost you anywhere between $35 to $65. They are relatively expensive because of their attractive appearance and compatibility with other fish.
Are betta unimaculatas good tank mates?
Yes. They are relatively peaceful and can easily coexist with other fish as well. Some of them include:
– Other betta fish
– Neon Tetras
– Guppies
– Mollies
– Cory Catfish
– Shrimps
– Snails
– Kuhli Loaches
How long can a betta unimaculata live?
Betta unimaculatas can live up to 4 to 5 years in a tank if proper care is provided.
Who would win in betta unimaculatas Vs. Betta ocellata?
Betta ocellata, owing to its lousy temperament and personality, will win a fight between a unimaculata and an ocelatta. However, it is doubtful for unimaculata to engage in a battle as it is pretty docile.
Final Thoughts
As a result, if you consider keeping a unimaculata, you should do it. They have an eye-catching appearance and would look fantastic in any tank. They are low-maintenance fish and are recommended if you want to host multiple bettas.
