Betta Krataois

Betta Krataois is a member from the Dimidiata group was identified and described by Tan Heok Hui and Peter KL Ng in 2006. Krataois from Greek means strong and this Betta sure spots a stout strong body. This fish is endemic to the area at Sanggau in West Kalimantan. What distincts it from the Betta Dimidiata is it's shorter fins. This fish is extremely colorful during spawning condition and like most wild collected fishes from Borneo prefers soft cool and acidic waters.

I hope you are enjoying your visits to this blog as I work to bring more photos of fishes and plants from this region in the coming weeks.

Vesicularia Dubyana Moss

One of the most popular plant amongst planted aquarium keepers are moss. They add colors and soften the look of the tank. Wrapped around rocks or driftwoods, they add to the beauty of the aquarium. In breeding fishes, they are essential too as fries often source infusoria derived from the moss.

In the tropical rainforest of Borneo, there are many types of moss found in our jungles, especially around the edges of waterfalls and mountain streams.

Perfect Balance of Nature

The planted aquarium thrives on perfect balance of it's own ecological system just like nature. Most beautiful tanks shows harmony of life that balances everything. Shifts in the balance will show on your tank, calling for proper attention and measures to be taken. Excessive algae, plant meltdowns, sudden deaths of fishes or shrimps, plants discoloring, lack of plant photosynthesis all points to shift of this balance. It doesnt take rocket science to remedy them, just some care and right advice from your local planted tank specialist.

In my opinion, the planted aquarium is the best classroom for conservation and sustainable environment for our planet. Nature is elaborately comprehensive and perfect in it's creation. We are still learning things from nature and how it holds the answer and solution to many of life's problem; planted aquarium included.

A serious planted aquarium keeper will gain self discipline and greater appreciation for the stewardship of this planet we call home. Taking for granted things will always have severe consequences. Hopefully every planted tank hobbyist out there will pick this up as a way of life. Happy planting!

Carinotetraodon Salivator

The Zebra Puffer is a stunning freshwater puffer from Sarawak. Ideal pH is 6.0 and this fish loves shrimps and snails. Their behavior is similar with other freshwater puffers. The male displays intense red coloration on the belly.

Betta Albimarginata

I find these bettas from the Mahakam districts to be very pretty when they are are in spawning colors. Very easy to keep and breed as they readily take to pellets, frozen bloodworms or live larvae. Keep water in pH around 5.5, with moderate lighting. Breeding tanks should have lots of plants and hiding places for the male mouth brooder.

Betta Mandor

Betta Mandor is part of the Foerschi group from Kalimantan Barat. These are wild bettas kept in our quarantine facility in Kuching. Ideal pH is between 4.5-5.5, water conditioned with blackwater extract is good when fish are stressed. Unfortunately large scale deforestration in their natural habitat will continue to deplete the wild population. Hopefully succesful aquarium kept fishes will continue to flourish all over the world amongst wild betta enthusiasts.

Nemacheilus Saravancensis

This is a very gregarious fish that often isnt shy of people. Nemacheilus Saravancensis loach can be found in clean clear water streams of Sarawak. Natural habitat water pH is 5.5-6.0 with a temperature of 25C. Readily will take quality micro pellets and easy to keep in aquarium.