Dumbo Ear Plakat Betta - Betta splendens
Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Common Name: Dumbo Ear Plakat Betta, Elephant Ear Plakat
Family: Osphronemidae
Origin: Southeast Asia (specifically the Mekong basin); the distinct "Dumbo" (enlarged pectoral fins) and "Plakat" (short-finned) characteristics are the result of meticulous selective breeding within the aquarium trade
Size: Up to 2.5 to 3 inches (6.5-7.5 cm)
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Diet: Carnivorous; they require a protein-rich diet consisting of high-quality betta pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
Temperament: Highly territorial and aggressive; due to their shorter fins, Plakats are notably more agile and active than their long-finned counterparts, making them formidable albeit captivating residents
Water Parameters: Temperature: 78-82°F (25-28°C) pH: 6.5-7.5 Hardness: 5-20 dGH
Tank Size: Minimum 5 gallons
Compatibility: Best kept as a solitary center piece fish; in larger setups, they can coexist with peaceful, short-finned bottom dwellers like corydoras or snails, but one must strictly avoid other labyrinth fish, fin-nippers, or brightly coloured tank mates that might trigger their aggressive instincts