Assorted Shortfin Male Fighter 5cm

Assorted Shortfin Male Fighter

The allure of fighting fish often comes from their extravagant display of flowing fins which is why they are one of the most globally recognized fish. They have been in the aquarium industry since the late 1800s which shows just how incredibly popular, they are. Because of their star status, there are now hundreds of colours and genetic variations now available in the aquarium hobby however the shortfin fighter fish sticks true to its wild ancestry. 

Often referred to as the plakat, the short-fin fighting fish are far more athletic and as a result more active. It was actually from wild plakat fighters that the longer fin varieties we know and love today exist. Though the display of fins is far shorter, these fish make up for it with their personality, body shape, and colors. They have the classic long betta body shape with a very crisp aesthetic to the fins that almost look like they are hooked with sharp points. The half-moon-shaped tail and dorsal fin along with the extended ventral fin really show off the streamlined and almost wild look these fighting fish have. They make for an amazing, personality-filled display of fish in a small desktop aquarium and stick all the boxes that beginner aquarists may want. 

Aside from their streamlined structure, the colours of this fish are almost like a random selection from a rainbow. They can range in blues, reds, blacks, whites, yellows and the list continues, it can often be a pleasantly painful experience trying to select a colour from this array which is why the assorted option offered by the LiveFish team is sort of like a betta lucky dip. 

Betta in general has 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 a 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 in sight. Though male fighters are aggressive to other males and potentially aggressive in tight environments, in a standard 35L (10 gallons) aquarium they can be kept with other community fish. 

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

Tank Recommendations for your Shortfin Male Fighter
Shortfin betta max out at around the 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 35 L. They will however be a great centerpiece fish in the larger peaceful aquarium with smaller fish. The substrate of the aquarium is not too much of a concern however shortfin 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

Shortfin fighters are relatively peaceful fish and because they do not have overly extravagant fins, they are very athletic and can compete with faster-moving tank mates. Though these fighting fish are peaceful they can at times be territorial which is why larger aquariums are better. They do at times have the rare risk of chasing down tank mates with ease due to their streamlined structure and causing unwanted stress so it is best to assess the behavior of your individual fish when it is added to the aquarium and the following few days. 

Usually Compatible

Small tetras such as embers along with corydoras, loaches, and similar peaceful fish

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 black widow tetras which might be too fast and outcompete the shortfin betta.

Rarely Compatible 

Shrimp, another male betta, and fin-nipping species.

Feeding your Shortfin Male Fighter

Shortfin 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 top-dwelling nature, they should be given foods that readily float for them to eat easily.  Feeding should occur once a day.