How to sex Betta rubra?

[ban_tse]

Hi all,

Was at an LFS and was close to getting a pair of Betta rubra for myself. Only problem was that i found it difficult to differentiate between males and females.

From my experience, differentiating between the sexes for bettas was always based on a few factors:

1. Finnage - males had more elongated dorsal and anal fins as well as ventral fins. Males had sharper caudal fins
2. mouth shape - for males, the head tends to be more "U" shaped from above, and the female more of a "V".
3. Coloration - dominant males had more distinct color than females

Using these criteria, i looked through a tank of more than 20 fishes, and could only seem to find males...

Any tips from the experienced hobbyists?

advise is much appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

ben

[Jitticus]

You're referring to the tank of rubra in Green Chapter? It was quite ok to find males and females. In this case you forgot to look out for the egg sac and egg spot.

[ban_tse]

OH yes!

Forgot about that characteristic.
I do remember the fishes at Green Chapter to be well fed, and did not pay attention to the egg sac and eff spot.

Will probably head down again and try my luck at getting a pair.

btw, any idea if they can be kept together with Boraras merah and Betta uberis? I have a feeling the B.merah will become fish food.

Anyone been able to keep Betta rubra in a community tank?

cheers

ben

[Jitticus]

Almost all bettas don't do well in community tanks. Species tanks, maybe. They jump at every opportunity and community tanks are usually semi planted, which means it may be hard to get sufficient light in there.
Also, they will prey on smaller and less agile fish, and at the same time get bullied by bigger, more robust fish. Conclusion - 1 tank for a pair is best, IMO. With lots and lots of Java moss.

Ben, also look out for the banding on the body which is more prominent. As they loose it the moment you put the net in, try to lock your vision on the piece you want and not take your eyes off it.