Since the 1880s, Betta pugnax behavior has been studied with interest by Scientists. In fact, before Betta splendens was so popularized in the West, the Pugnax was one of the most popular of the fighting fish. In fact, its very name, Pugnax, is Latin for "fighting", and although these days we associate the term with its more glamorous and aggressive cousin, Betta splendens, it is still interesting to consider.

Although less popular than Splendens, the Pugnax is considered much easier to keep and breed for the average aquarist. It can tolerate a wide range of pH and a steady temperature of around 70-85° F, and as long as the water is kept clean, well filtered, and with plenty of current, the Forest Betta does very well. It can be kept with other peaceful fish, and unlike Betta splendens, several males and females can happily coexist together, provided the tank is large enough and has adequate hiding places. Any Pugnax tank should be well planted (including floating plants) and tightly covered, as this betta is an Olympic-quality jumper and can easily become a carpet chip if given the opportunity. Pugnax is best kept in an aquarium with subdued lighting so it will display its best colors. Normal stocking rules apply, and the fish requires a minimum tank size of 10 gallons or more.

Betta pugnax isn't a fussy eater, and will happily take chopped earthworms, pellets, live or frozen bloodworms, live or frozen brine shrimp, freeze-dried foods, and even flake if they have been conditioned to accept it. However, as a scourge of mosquitoes this fish is nonpareiled -- the Forest Betta is so adept at consuming mosquito larvae that the species has long found use in mosquito control efforts throughout Asia and beyond. Those aquarists who actively culture mosquito larvae as fish food will find Betta pugnax a willing and enthusiastic customer!

Breeding Betta pugnax is not difficult, provided the fish is well fed and given adequate space and water conditions. They can be aggressive while spawning, so care must be taken that the fish have plenty of hiding places. Once they choose a "territory" in which to spawn, they will guard it ruthlessly. This includes chasing and biting other tank inhabitants who they feel have wandered too close. When a male is receptive to spawning, he will darken in color and his green iridescence will intensify. He will court the female with fins spread, and if she is receptive to his advances her color will fade and she will display three distinct lateral bands.

Reportedly the best breeding results are obtained by housing one male with two females, with the dominant female taking the initiative. The fish spawn at the bottom of the tank with the female releasing eggs with each embrace, wherein the male gathers them into his mouth. Spawning can continue for up to 12 hours, at which time the male will retreat and the female will guard him from other tank inhabitants. If a female continues to be present after spawning, the male may swallow the eggs and spawn again. For this reason it is recommended that the female (or both females) are removed once spawning is complete.

The male will "hold" eggs for around 2 weeks before releasing between 30-60 perfectly independent fry. Once released, the male can be removed and the fry fed with newly hatched baby brine shrimp and microworms. Alternately, it isn't uncommon to find Pugnax fry alive and well in adult tanks, proving that spawns can and do occur in community situations.

Interesting to observe, easily kept and willingly bred, the Forest Betta is an excellent subject for the beginning wild betta keeper. Why not see for yourself? (source: bettysplendens[dot]com)