"Discover the beauty of Betta cf. Persephone! This rare and stunning fish adds unique elegance to any aquarium with its striking colors and peaceful demeanor."

Overview: Betta cf. Persephone is a rare and captivating species of betta fish known for its stunning coloration and peaceful nature. Originating from the peat swamps of Malaysia, these fish are a treat for experienced aquarists looking to add an exotic and visually striking specimen to their freshwater tanks. Unlike the more aggressive Betta splendens, Betta cf. Persephone is relatively peaceful, making it suitable for a well-planned community setup or a species-specific tank.

Appearance:

• Coloration: Betta cf. Persephone displays a striking combination of dark blues, blacks, and iridescent hues. Their bodies are primarily dark, with shimmering highlights that catch the light beautifully.
• Body Shape: They have a sleek, elongated body typical of wild-type bettas, with long, flowing fins that add to their elegance.
• Size: These bettas are small, typically reaching about 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) in length.

Water Conditions: To ensure the health and vibrancy of Betta cf. Persephone, maintain the following water conditions:

• Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C).
• pH Range: 5.0-7.0, with slightly acidic conditions being preferred.
• Water Hardness: 1-5 dGH.
• Tank Size: A minimum of 5 gallons is recommended for a single fish, with larger tanks needed for community setups or breeding pairs.

Tank Setup: Creating an ideal habitat for your Betta cf. Persephone involves several considerations:

• Substrate: Use a soft, sandy substrate to mimic their natural peat swamp environment.
• Decor: Include plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, leaf litter, and live plants like Java moss and Anubias. These elements provide cover and create a more natural and comfortable setting for the fish.
• Filtration: A gentle filter is preferred to avoid strong currents, as these fish thrive in calm waters. A sponge filter is often ideal.
• Lighting: Low to moderate lighting is sufficient. These fish are used to dimly lit environments, and too much light can cause stress.

Tank Mates: Betta cf. Persephone are relatively peaceful but can be shy. Choose tank mates carefully:

• Compatible Species: Small, peaceful fish such as pygmy corydoras, small rasboras, and other non-aggressive species that thrive in similar water conditions.
• Incompatible Species: Avoid larger, aggressive fish or those that might outcompete them for food or bully them.

Feeding Habit: Betta cf. Persephone are carnivores with specific dietary needs. Provide a varied diet to meet their nutritional requirements:

• Staple Diet: High-quality betta pellets or flakes.
• Supplements: Offer live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms to provide necessary protein.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily in small amounts to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Care and Maintenance: Regular care and maintenance are crucial for the well-being of your Betta cf. Persephone:

• Water Changes: Perform weekly water changes of 20-30% to maintain optimal water conditions.
• Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of common betta diseases such as fin rot, ich, and parasitic infections. Early detection and treatment are vital.
• Behavioral Observation: Observe their behavior regularly to ensure they are active and healthy. These fish are typically shy but should be curious and interactive in a well-settled tank.

Breeding: Breeding Betta cf. Persephone can be a rewarding experience for dedicated aquarists:

• Pair Selection: Choose a healthy and compatible pair. Conditioning them with high-quality foods can enhance breeding success.
• Spawning Environment: Provide a separate breeding tank with plenty of cover. The water should be soft and slightly acidic.
• Fry Care: Once the eggs hatch, remove the parents to protect the fry. Feed the fry infusoria or specially prepared fry food until they are large enough to eat regular food.