Betta var. 'Alien' – Exotic Betta Fish for Your Aquarium

Betta var. 'Alien' is a stunning, exotic variety of Betta with unique features and vibrant colors. Its striking appearance makes it a perfect centerpiece in your aquarium.

Betta var. 'Alien' – Unique and Exotic Betta Fish for Your Freshwater Tank

The Betta var. 'Alien' is a captivating and rare variety of Betta fish that stands out for its unusual coloration and body features. With a unique look that features striking metallic hues and irregular markings, this Betta is a must-have for collectors and aquarium enthusiasts. The 'Alien' Betta is an eye-catching species with a blend of vibrant colors and delicate finnage, making it an ideal centerpiece fish for any aquarium setup. While it shares the same peaceful temperament as other Betta species, its distinct appearance and beautiful coloring make it a standout in any freshwater tank.

Below is a comprehensive guide on how to care for Betta var. 'Alien,' including its water conditions, tank mates, feeding habits, and general maintenance.

Key Characteristics:

• Common Name: Betta var. 'Alien'

• Scientific Name: Betta splendens var. 'Alien'

• Family: Osphronemidae

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam)

• Size: Typically 2.5 to 3 inches (6.5 to 7.5 cm) in length

• Lifespan: 3-5 years with proper care

• Temperament: Peaceful but territorial, particularly males during breeding season

• Coloration: Metallic, with iridescent greens, purples, and blues. Their distinct patterning and shimmering colors make them stand out.

• Finnage: The 'Alien' Betta has long, flowing fins that add to its elegance and appeal.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C) – A consistent warm temperature is essential for this species.

• pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5 – Slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal.

• Hardness: 5-15 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)

• Water Movement: Slow to moderate water flow. Betta var. 'Alien' is not accustomed to strong currents, so use a gentle filter to maintain a peaceful environment.

• Filtration: A good filtration system is essential to maintain water quality, but make sure the current is not too strong.

Tip: Regular water changes (25-30% every 1-2 weeks) will help keep your Betta var. 'Alien' healthy and prevent the buildup of toxins in the water.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 5-10 gallons is recommended for a single Betta var. 'Alien.' For multiple Betta males or a community tank, consider larger tanks (20-30 gallons or more).

• Aquascaping: Provide a tank with plenty of plants, rocks, and hiding spots to reduce stress and help your Betta feel secure. Floating plants like Duckweed or Java Moss can provide coverage for the Betta and enhance its environment.

• Substrate: Soft, fine gravel or sand is best. Betta fish are known to explore the substrate, and rough or sharp gravel can injure their delicate fins.

• Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal. Betta var. 'Alien' enjoys subdued light that mimics the natural conditions of its habitat.

Tip: Providing a peaceful and well-planted environment will help reduce stress and allow your Betta to thrive.

Tank Mates:

• Compatibility: Betta var. 'Alien' is a peaceful species, but males can be territorial, particularly during breeding. It is important to keep only one male Betta var. 'Alien' per tank to prevent aggression. Suitable tank mates include:

  • Peaceful species such as Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras, or Corydoras catfish

  • Snails (e.g., Nerite Snails or Mystery Snails)

  • Peaceful shrimp like Amano or Cherry Shrimp

  • Non-aggressive species such as small peaceful livebearers (e.g., Guppies or Platys)

• Avoid: Do not house multiple Betta males together, as they will fight. Avoid fish with long fins (such as other Betta species) that might be mistaken for rivals. Also, avoid overly active or aggressive species.

Tip: When choosing tank mates, consider other peaceful species that won’t invade the Betta's territory. Provide ample hiding spots to reduce stress for all tank inhabitants.

Feeding Habits:

• Diet: Betta var. 'Alien' is an omnivore and enjoys a variety of foods. A balanced diet will help maintain its vibrant colors and overall health. Suitable foods include:

  • High-quality Betta pellets or flakes

  • Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia

  • Blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas

  • Algae-based foods such as spirulina or algae wafers

• Feeding Frequency: Feed Betta var. 'Alien' 2-3 times a day, offering small amounts that they can consume in a few minutes. Overfeeding should be avoided as it can lead to water quality problems and obesity.

Tip: A varied diet helps ensure that Betta var. 'Alien' receives all the necessary nutrients. Provide occasional treats like live or frozen foods to keep them active and engaged.

Care and Maintenance:

• General Care: Betta var. 'Alien' is relatively easy to care for, but regular maintenance is key. Ensure the water quality is consistently high, the temperature stable, and the environment clean. Betta var. 'Alien' is hardy but sensitive to poor water quality, so good filtration and regular water changes are crucial.

• Health Issues: While Betta var. 'Alien' is hardy, it is still susceptible to common freshwater fish diseases, including Ich, fin rot, and fungal infections. Regularly inspect your Betta for signs of illness such as clamped fins, fading coloration, or lethargy. Quarantining new arrivals can help prevent the spread of disease.

• Breeding: Breeding Betta var. 'Alien' is possible in a well-maintained tank. Like other Betta species, they are bubble-nest builders. The male creates a bubble nest, and after courting the female, she lays her eggs. The male protects the eggs until they hatch. Separate the male and female after breeding to avoid aggression.

Tip: If you plan to breed Betta var. 'Alien,' provide a breeding tank with floating plants and a gentle filter. Monitor the parents closely during the breeding process.

Final Thoughts:

The Betta var. 'Alien' is a unique and stunning fish that brings both beauty and personality to any aquarium. Its peaceful nature, vibrant colors, and elegant finnage make it a perfect centerpiece for smaller aquariums. By maintaining proper water conditions, providing compatible tank mates, and offering a varied diet, you can enjoy the striking appearance of this Betta variety for years to come. Whether you are a Betta enthusiast or new to fishkeeping, Betta var. 'Alien' will undoubtedly be a fascinating and rewarding addition to your aquarium.