Male Dragon Fighter 5cm

Male Dragon Fighter

There isn't a fish more globally recognised than the classic male fighter fish. They have been in the aquarium industry since the late 1800s which shows just how incredibly popular they are. Of the hundreds of colour and genetic variations now available in the aquarium hobby, the most often seen and readily available is the Dragon fighter

The Dragon Fighter's signature look comes from its thick, armor-like metallic scales that reflect bright silver, platinum, or copper tones, overlaid with deep reds, Dragons, or blacks. Their dramatic long fins fan out elegantly, adding to their regal appearance. The intensity of their colours deepens with age, making them a highly sought-after Betta variation. Unlike standard Bettas, Dragon Fighters have a thicker scale structure, giving them a bolder, almost mythical aesthetic.

Betta in general have developed a few false reputations, the first being that they can thrive in incredibly small environments like vases and jugs which is not true. Much like any aquarium fish they need proper filtration and spacious environment relative to their max size of 5 - 6 cm. The second common misconception is that they are aquarium terrors which will kill every fish on sight. Though male fighters are aggressive to other males and potentially aggressive in tight environment, in a standard 40L (10 gallon) aquarium they can be kept with other community fish.

They are also a hardy tropical fish which can be kept in temperatures between 24-28 and also make for a fun breeding project due to the challenge of continuing the male and female to breed and rising the fry. Betta are naturally found in the waterways of Southeast Asia.

Tank Recommendations for your Male Dragon Fighter
Dragon betta max out at around 5 - 6 cm mark and are surprisingly active and flashy fish which is why they would be great in a nano aquarium with a minimum volume of 40 litres. They will however be a great centrepiece fish in larger peaceful aquarium with slow moving fish. The substrate of the aquarium is not too much of a concern however Dragon fighters will love a well planted aquarium. This allows them to contrast amazingly against the bright plants but also gives them a place of refuge to hide as well.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Dragon fighters are a relatively peaceful fish and actually often get bullied by other tank mated which nip at their trailing fins. Their slow nature also means they can get easily outcompeted during feeding time which is why care should be taken when selecting tank mates.

Usually Compatible

Small tetras such as neon, ember, rummy nose and similar species.

Sometime Compatible

dwarf cichlids such as Bolivian rams, or apistogramma which may show aggression or fast moving species such as giant danios, torpedo barbs or Congo tetras which might outcompete for food.

Rarely Compatible

Shrimp, other male betta, tiger barbs and larger species such as Uaru which will certainly outcompete the slower betta.

Feeding your Dragon Fighter

Dragon fighter fish are incredibly easy to feed. They take to a wide range of foods and should have a varied diet for optimal health, going them a range of flake, pellets, frozen and live foods will not only make them thrive but also show off amazing colours. Because of their mostly top dwelling nature they should be given foods that readily float for them to eat easily.