Koi Multicolour Plakat (Betta Splendens)
Betta splendens are native to the shallow, slow-moving waters of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos, where they inhabit rice paddies, ditches and still ponds. This variety is bred in Indonesia and takes its name from its resemblance to Japanese koi carp, displaying irregular patches of red, white, orange and black scattered across the body and fins.
Koi bettas carry the marble gene, so the pattern is not fixed — colours and patches can continue to shift and develop as the fish matures, meaning no two fish are ever quite alike and the fish you buy may look noticeably different in a few months' time.
As a plakat, this male has short, robust fins rather than the long flowing fins of other betta types, tracing back to the fighting bettas historically bred across Southeast Asia for stamina and agility. This gives it a hardier, more compact build and makes it a strong, active swimmer.
Juveniles often don't display full colouration and become more and more vivid as they age, making them fascinating to watch as they change.
Care
Origin: Indonesia
Temperature: 24-27℃
pH: 6.5-7.5
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: <20
TDS: 450ppm
Water Flow: Medium
Food: high grade betta pellet, frozen bloodworm, frozen brine shrimp, frozen white mosquito larvae.
We recommend using Catappa leaf in the aquarium to help with stress and also improve fish health and colouration.
Koi Multicolour Plakat #4
Please see our more extensive care guides:
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Brief Guide:
Tank: 19 litres / 5 gallons absolute minimum. 38 litres / 10 gallons or more is strongly recommended. Giant types need at least this.
Temperature: 26-29 degrees C
Environment: provide plenty of air space above the water, as Bettas breathe air.
Feeding: High-protein Betta pellets , not standard flakes.
Feed Frequency: 3-4 pellets once or twice daily. Remove any uneaten food after one minute to prevent water pollution.
Treats: Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Maintenance and Health
Water Changes: Perform 25-30% weekly water changes, using a dechlorinator, to remove waste.
Tank Mates: Best kept alone as they fight, especially with other males.
Water Quality: Keep ammonia and nitrites at zero. pH 6.0 to 8.0.
Lifespan: 3 to 5 years if well cared for.
Avoid Bowls: Small bowls lack proper heating or filtration, leading to disease.
Stimulation: Add plants and decor to prevent boredom.