Mandarin fish, also known as Betta fish, is one of the most popular and beloved aquarium fish in the world. With its vibrant colors and ability to live independently, Mandarin fish not only attracts beginners but is also a favorite choice of many veteran aquarium keepers. In this article, nahj.info will learn in detail about Mandarin fish, from biological characteristics, habitat, care, to common diseases and how to prevent them.
1. Introduction to Mandarin Fish
a. Origin and Characteristics
Mandarin fish, with the scientific name Betta splendens, originates from freshwater areas in Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. This fish is known for its brilliant beauty and fighting ability when threatened. The Mandarin Fish is named after a Chinese legend, in which “Zhuang Yuan” is a noble title given to people who achieve excellent results in academic examinations.
b. Physical Characteristics
Mandarin Fish are notable for their diverse colors and long, soft fins. They can range in color from red, blue, yellow, to purple and many other colors. The fin types of the Mandarin Fish are also very diverse, including round caudal fins, wing caudal fins, and dragon caudal fins. The size of the Mandarin Fish is usually about 5-10 cm when mature, depending on the breed and how it is kept.
2. Living Environment and Conditions for Raising Mandarin Fish
a. Choosing a Fish Tank
Mandarin Fish can live in small tanks, but for them to grow well and have comfortable swimming space, a tank with a minimum capacity of 10 liters is ideal. The fish tank should have a lid to prevent the fish from jumping out. If you keep multiple mandarin fish in the same tank, make sure the tank has enough space and hiding places to reduce conflict between fish.
b. Water Conditions
Mandarin fish prefer warm water with an ideal temperature of 24-28°C. The water in the tank should be changed regularly and tested for parameters such as pH (6.5-7.5), ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Mandarin fish can live in water with varying temperatures, but maintaining a stable temperature is important for their health.
c. Aquarium Decorations
Mandarin fish need a rich habitat to feel comfortable. Providing decorative elements such as rocks, sand, and aquatic plants not only beautify the tank but also provide hiding places and swimming areas for the fish. Aquatic plants such as Java Moss and Anubias are good choices because they do not require high light and provide shade for the fish.
3. Diet
a. Food Types
Mandarin fish are omnivorous and can consume a wide variety of foods. Their main diet usually includes betta pellets, frozen foods such as artemia and daphnia, and live foods such as bloodworms. To ensure that your fish gets a complete diet, provide them with a varied and balanced diet.
b. Feeding Schedule
Mandarin fish should be fed 2-3 times a day, each time in small amounts that they can finish in about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overfeeding to avoid polluting the water and reducing the risk of health problems.
4. Caring for Mandarin Fish
a. Regular Water Changes
Regular water changes are important to maintain the water quality in your aquarium. You should change about 25-30% of the water in your tank each week. When changing the water, use dechlorinated water that is the same temperature as the water in your tank to avoid shocking your fish.
b. Checking Water Quality
Checking water quality is necessary to ensure that the living environment of the Mandarin fish is always at its best. You should check the pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels periodically to ensure that they are always at safe levels.
c. Fish Health Observation
Observe the Mandarin fish daily to detect early signs of disease. Healthy fish will have bright colors, swim flexibly and have no signs of disease such as white spots, torn fins or unusual behavior.
5. Common Diseases and How to Prevent Them
a. Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases often appear as white spots on the body and fins of the fish. To prevent fungal diseases, you need to maintain a clean water environment, change the water regularly and check the water quality regularly. If the fish is infected with fungus, you can use antifungal medicine and increase the water temperature to about 24-26°C.
b. Scale Rot
Scale rot causes the fish’s scales to fall off and the fish’s body to become ulcerated. It is mainly caused by water pollution or trauma. To prevent it, maintain a clean living environment and provide a balanced diet. If your fish has scale rot, change the water regularly and use specialized medication.
c. Fin Rot
Fin rot causes the fish’s fins to rot and lose color. To prevent it, make sure the water is always clean and provide a nutritious diet. If your fish has fin rot, change the water regularly and use fin rot medication as directed by your veterinarian.
