The Betta Hendra is a wild-type betta fish native to Borneo. The species was named after Hendra Tommy, who made the discovery of the species.
The hendra belongs to the betta genus under the order of perciformes.
In 2013, a study by Schindler and Linke revealed important information relating to the origin of the species. Their study, “Betta hendra – A new species of fighting fish,” provides detailed accounts of the species’ natural habitat.
Habitat
The Betta Hendra is native to Thailand and is typically found in freshwater habitats. In the wild, the Hendra is accustomed to temperatures ranging between 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). In line with other wild type betta fish, the Hendra prefer low pH values, ranging between 4 and 6.5.
Fishkeepers should strive to provide an aquarium habitat that resembles the natural habitat of the fish. The Hendra is typically found in blackwater habitats, which are slightly acidic and filled with slow decomposing leaves, branches, and other organic elements.
The depth of water in its natural habitat ranges between 5cm and 50cm has little to no current and was heavily shaded by trees and plants.
Bettas are anabantoids, which are known to breathe air from their mouth. To breathe, bettas must reach the surface of the water. It is therefore recommended that fishkeepers allow at least a few inches of space between the surface of the water and the lid. This will ensure that the betta has enough space to breathe. Since bettas are generally good jumpers, till reduce the risk of injury during jumping.
Appearance
The presentation of the Hendra is similar to the highly popular Betta splenden. The hendra is dark brown with hints of blue, green and sometimes red. It’s body is more elongated than Betta splendens, who are commonly found in pet stores. Hendra’s are short-finned, much like plakats, which gives the species a minimilastic, slendrous and sophisticated appereance.
The eyes of a Betta Hendra are typically green or blueish-green and slightly triangular.
Males are typically more colorful than females.
Diet
Hendras are carnivorous.
In the wild, the Hendra will feed primarily on insects and invertebrates. In captivity, some may be able to feed on flakes, however, this depends on the fish. Preferably, Hendra’s should be fed a variety of live foods including daphnias, blackworms, and brine shrimp.
Breeding
Betta hendra is a bubble nester. Males are in charge of building the bubble nest and will generally chase the female away once the eggs have been lodged in the nest. The male will tend to maintain the bubble nest, and ensuring that the eggs stay lodged in the nest. Falling eggs will be retrieved and relodged by the male.
Interbreeding with other species of betta is possible.
Tank Mates
Betta hendras should ideally be kept with those of their own species. Like most bettas, the hendra does not quite fit the persona of a community fish.
The hendra may tolerate small and slow-moving fish in its aquarium.
References
Schindler, Ingo, and Horst Linke. Betta Hendra – A New Species of Fighting Fish … Vertebrate Zoology, 2013.