Eyespot mouthbrooder
Introduction
The Eyespot Mouthbrooder (Betta ocellata) is a captivating freshwater fish native to Borneo, prized by aquarists for its unique breeding behavior and peaceful demeanor. This species is well-suited for hobbyists seeking an engaging addition to their community tanks, offering both aesthetic appeal and manageable care requirements.
Care and Environment
Providing optimal care for the Eyespot Mouthbrooder involves attention to tank size, water parameters, and environmental enrichment.
What is the minimum tank size for a single Eyespot Mouthbrooder?
A minimum tank size of 76 liters is recommended to accommodate a single fish comfortably.
What are the ideal water parameters for this species?
Maintain a temperature range of 23–26°C, a pH between 6.3 and 7.7, and water hardness from 4 to 18°dGH to replicate their natural habitat conditions.
How should the tank be set up to meet their needs?
Incorporate plenty of hiding spots using plants and decorations, and ensure a tight-fitting lid, as they are known to be excellent jumpers. A gentle filtration system is advisable to maintain water quality without creating strong currents.
Feeding should consist of a varied diet, including live or frozen foods like daphnia and bloodworms, supplemented with high-quality flake or pellet foods. Regular water changes and monitoring are essential to keep the environment stable and healthy.
Origin and Habitat
Native to northeastern Borneo, specifically Sabah and East Kalimantan in Malaysia and Indonesia, the Eyespot Mouthbrooder inhabits slow-flowing areas such as ravines and isolated pools. These environments are characterized by floating leaves and submerged leaf litter, providing ample cover and feeding opportunities. The species thrives in these calm waters, feeding primarily on terrestrial insects and occasionally on aquatic invertebrates.
Temperament and Compatibility
The Eyespot Mouthbrooder is generally peaceful, making it suitable for community tanks with other non-aggressive species. However, males can exhibit aggression towards each other, so it's advisable to keep only one male per tank or provide ample space and hiding spots to mitigate conflicts.
Can they be kept with other fish species?
Yes, they can coexist with other peaceful fish, but avoid housing them with aggressive or overly active species that may intimidate them.
Do they require a group to thrive?
While not strictly shoaling, they do well in pairs or small groups, provided the tank is spacious enough to prevent territorial disputes.
Ensuring a harmonious tank community involves selecting compatible tank mates and providing an environment that caters to the needs of all inhabitants.
Interesting Facts
The Eyespot Mouthbrooder exhibits fascinating behaviors that intrigue aquarists. Notably, they are paternal mouthbrooders, with males incubating fertilized eggs in their mouths until the fry are ready to be released. This unique reproductive strategy offers a captivating glimpse into their natural behaviors.
Are they known for any unique behaviors?
Yes, aside from mouthbrooding, they are excellent jumpers, often found in isolated elevated pools in the wild, suggesting their ability to leap between bodies of water.
What is their typical lifespan in captivity?
With proper care, they can live up to 4 years, providing long-term enjoyment for dedicated aquarists.
These intriguing traits make the Eyespot Mouthbrooder a rewarding species for those interested in observing unique fish behaviors.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources: