Dragon Scale Betta: Care Guide + Full Bio | 2024 Updated

Dragon Scale Betta is a beautiful and unique fish that is native to the waters of Southeast Asia. They are popular aquarium fish, and their striking appearance makes them a favorite among fish keepers.

The betta is also known as the Siamese fighting fish. These fish are known for their aggressive behavior and ability to jump out of the water. Dragon Scale Betta is also known to be very hardy and can survive in a variety of water conditions.

The males of this species are particularly aggressive and will often fight to the death. Dragon Scale Betta gets its name from its distinctive large scales, which have a metallic sheen resembling dragon scales. They come in a variety of colors.

This article will take a closer look at Dragon Scale Betta, including its appearance, behavior, and care requirements. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and learn about Dragon Scale Betta!

Species Summary

Scientific name:	Betta splendens
Common names:	Dragon Scale Betta, Siamese fighting fish
Family:	Osphronemidae
Color:	Orange, red, yellow, green
Origin:	Southeast Asia
Size:	2.5 – 3 inches
Lifespan:	Up to 5 years
Aggression level:	High
Tank size:	7-10 gallons
pH range:	6.8 to 7.0
Temperature range:	75° – 76°Fahrenheit
Water type:	Freshwater
Water hardness:	Soft to medium
Care Level:	Moderate
Sociability:	Solitary fish
Compatibility:	Other small freshwater fish
Breeding:	Challenging
Diet:	Carnivores
Feeding frequency:	2 – 3 times per day

Dragon Scale Betta is one of the more popular betta fish varieties. They are a recently developed variety of betta created by crossing different strains of bettas. The most common parent strains used in creating Dragon Scale Bettas are the plakat and Halfmoon bettas. 

The result is a beautiful fish with large, reflective scales. The scientific name of Dragon Scale Betta is Betta Splendens. They are also known by their common name, the Siamese fighting fish. 

These fish are native to the waters of Southeast Asia. They are found in slow-moving or stagnant waters. Dragon Scale Bettas typically live in rice paddies, canals, and ditches.

All betta are ‘anabantoid’ fish, which means they have a labyrinth organ. This allows them to breathe air directly from the surface of the water. 

The cost of a Dragon Scale Betta can vary depending on the breeder, color, and pattern. Prices typically range from $20 to $40. But you may be able to find them for less at a pet store or fish market.

When choosing a Dragon Scale Betta, it is essential to select a healthy fish. Avoid fish that have injuries, diseases, or parasites. It is also important to avoid fish bred in poor conditions. These fish are more likely to be sick and have a shorter lifespan.

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Dragon Scale Betta Size & Growth Rate

The size of a full-grown Dragon Scale Betta varies depending on the strain. But, most adults will reach a length of 2.5 to 3 inches. The growth rate of these fish is relatively fast. They will reach their full size within 6 to 8 months. As with most fish, the males of this species tend to be larger than the females.

Dragon Scale Betta Lifespan

The lifespan of a dragon-scale betta is typically 5 years. But, with proper care, they can live up to 6 or 7 years. However, it is not uncommon for captive fish to have a shorter lifespan than their wild counterparts. This is due to the poor conditions that many fish are kept in.

Dragon Scale Betta Appearance & Color Variations

Dragon Scale Bettas are one of the more popular varieties of betta fish. They get their name from their large, reflective scales. These fish are available in various colors, including orange, red, yellow, and green. The most common coloration is a solid color with no patterns. But you may also find fish with stripes or spots.

The fins of these fish are long and flowy. Dragon Scale Betta looks quite different from all other betta varieties. And they are often mistaken for goldfish. While it does have some similarities to goldfish, Dragon Scale Betta is a member of the betta family. 

However, with the recent popularity of this fish, many breeders have begun to create different color variations. So, you may find fish with blue or purple scales. 

The body of a dragon-scale betta is long and slender. The head is small and flat, with large eyes. Males of this species tend to be larger than females and have longer fins. Males also have a tube-like organ called the gonopodium. This is used to deposit sperm into the female’s body during breeding. Females do not have this organ.

The scales of a dragon-scale betta are large and reflective. They have a shiny appearance and can be quite iridescent. The scales on the body are typically a different color than the fins.

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Dragon Scale Betta Breeding

Dragon Scale Betta is a mouth-brooding fish. This means the male will take the eggs into his mouth and care for them until they hatch. The female will lay her eggs in a plant or other object in the tank. The male will then fertilize them.

Once the eggs are fertilized, the female will leave the tank. The male will stay behind to care for the eggs. The eggs will hatch in 3 to 5 days. The fry will stay in the male’s mouth for another 5 to 7 days. During this time, they will absorb their yolk sacs and grow bigger.

Once they are big enough, the fry will be released into the tank. They can be fed live food or baby brine shrimp. The fry will grow quickly and will be able to breed in about 6 to 8 months. After that, they will reach full size in about a year.

There is also a longfin Dragon Scale Betta. This fish is similar to the regular Dragon Scale Betta but has longer fins. The fins can sometimes be twice as long as the body. The longfin Dragon Scale Betta is not a separate species. It is simply a result of selective breeding.

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Dragon Scale Betta Behavior & Temperament

Dragon Scale Betta male is very aggressive. They will often fight with other males. They are also known to be very territorial. Dragon Scale Betta female is not as aggressive as the male. However, they are still known to be somewhat territorial.

They are not recommended for community tanks. This is because they can be very aggressive towards other fish. However, if it suits your fancy, you could try keeping a male and female Dragon Scale Betta together. Just be sure to provide them with plenty of hiding places.

He should only be big enough to hold her in his mouth. If not, he will kill her for food eventually. They are known to be very active fish. They love to explore their tank and play with their toys.

Dragon Scale Betta Care Guide

Dragon Scale Betta is not a difficult fish to care for. They are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. However, there are a few things you need to do to ensure your fish stays healthy. 

The tank must be cleaned regularly. A weekly water change of 20% is sufficient. The filter should be cleaned every 2 to 4 weeks. Maintaining the correct water temperature is also essential, as this can impact the health of your fish. Also, maintain the Ph level and hardness of the water.

A larger tank is always better. You will need an even larger tank if you keep more than one fish. These fish are not very active and do not require a lot of space to swim. But they do need hiding places and plenty of plants.

You can keep Dragon Scale Bettas with other fish as long as they are peaceful. Avoid keeping them with fin nippers or other aggressive fish.

The diet of a Dragon Scale Betta is not very different from that of other betta fish. They are omnivores and will eat both meat and plants. You can feed them a variety of foods. Giving them a varied diet is essential to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.

Here we will discuss what you need to do to care for your Dragon Scale Betta.

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Dragon Scale Betta Tank Size

They need at least a 7-gallon tank. But, if you plan to keep more than one fish, you will need an even larger tank. When setting up your tank, include plenty of hiding places and plants. They are not very active and do not require a lot of space to swim.

Water Parameters

Dragon Scale Betta is a hardy fish that can tolerate many water conditions. However, there are a few things you need to do to ensure your fish stays healthy.

The water temperature should be between 75° – 76°Fahrenheit. The pH level should be between 6.8 and 7.0. The hardness of the water should be between 5 to 15 dH.

Maintaining the correct water temperature is also essential, as this can impact the health of your fish. Also, maintain the Ph level and hardness of the water. A weekly water change of 20% is sufficient. The filter should be cleaned every 2 to 4 weeks.

Filtration

You will need a filter to keep the water in your tank clean. There are a variety of filters available on the market. But not all filters are created equal. You will want to choose a filter specifically designed for betta fish. These filters are typically small and compact. They are also reticent and will not disturb your fish.

The filter you choose should also be easy to clean. Some filters have parts that need to be replaced regularly. Others are self-cleaning and do not require any maintenance.

Some recommended filters for betta fish are:

• The Fluval Nano Aquarium Filter
• The Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter
• The Marina Hang-On Breeding Box Filter

Heating

Your Dragon Scale Betta will need a heater to maintain the correct water temperature. These fish prefer water that is between 75° – 76° Fahrenheit.

There are a variety of heaters available on the market. These heaters are typically small and compact. They are also very easy to install.

Some recommended heaters for betta fish are:

• The Fluval E Heater
• The Tetra HT Submersible Aquarium Heater
• The Marina Slim Heater

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Plants

Dragon Scale Bettas are not very active and do not require a lot of swimming space. They prefer to spend most of their time hiding among the plants in their tank.

So, it is essential to include plenty of plants in their tank. These plants will provide your fish with shelter and places to hide. They will also help to oxygenate the water in your tank.

Some recommended plants for betta fish are:

• The Java Fern
• The Java Moss
• The Hornwort

Lighting

Dragon Scale Bettas do not require a lot of light. Too much light can be harmful to them. These fish prefer subdued lighting that is similar to their natural habitat.

So, choosing a light specifically designed for betta fish is essential. These lights are typically small and compact. They also have a low-wattage bulb that emits a soft, gentle light.

Some recommended lights for betta fish are:

• The Fluval Nano LED Aquarium Light
• The Tetra Aqua Globe Mini Aquarium
• The Marina Betta submersible Light

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Co2 Systems

Dragon Scale Bettas are very sensitive to changes in water conditions. So, it is essential to maintain a stable environment in their tank. One of the best ways to do this is to use a Co2 system. These systems help regulate your tank’s pH levels and prevent fluctuations.

Some recommended Co2 systems for betta fish are:

• The Fluval Pressurized Co2 Kit
• The Tetra EasyStrips 6-in-1 Aquarium Test Strips
• The Marina i25 Co2 Indicator

Water Conditioners

Dragon Scale Bettas are very sensitive to changes in water conditions. So, it is essential to use a water conditioner in their tank. Water conditioners help to remove toxins and impurities from the water. They also help to stabilize the pH levels in your tank.

Some recommended water conditioners for betta fish are:

• The Seachem Prime Water Conditioner
• The Aqua Safe Plus Water Conditioner
• The API Stress Coat+ Water Conditioner

Substrate

Dragon Scale Bettas prefer a soft, sandy substrate. This type of substrate is similar to their natural habitat and is gentle on their delicate fins.

Some recommended substrates for betta fish are:

• The Fluval Sea Aquarium Sand
• The CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate
• The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum

Decorations

Dragon Scale Bettas prefer a soft, sandy substrate. This type of substrate is similar to their natural habitat and is gentle on their delicate fins.

Some recommended substrates for betta fish are:

• Seachem Tidal 75 Aquarium Kit
• Fluval Sea CP4 Circulation Pump
• Aqueon Quiet Flow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter

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Other Tank Accessories

There are a few other things that you will need to set up a Dragon Scale Betta tank. Some recommended tank accessories for betta fish are:

• Ph Meter: This is an essential tool for monitoring the pH levels in your tank.
• Fluval Sea CP3 Circulation Pump: This pump is specifically designed for marine aquariums. It is very efficient and helps keep the water flowing in your tank.
• Aquarium Thermometer: Using an aquarium thermometer in your Dragon Scale Betta tank is essential. This will help you to keep track of the temperature in your tank.

With the right equipment and supplies, you can create a beautiful and healthy environment for your Dragon Scale Bettas.

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Water Changes

Dragon Scale Bettas are very sensitive to changes in water conditions. So, it is essential to do regular water changes. Water changes help to remove toxins and impurities from the water. They also help to stabilize the pH levels in your tank.

It is recommended to do a water change every week. This will ensure that your Dragon Scale Bettas stay healthy and happy.

To do a water change, you will need the following:

• An aquarium vacuum cleaner: This is used to remove the old water from your tank.
• A clean bucket: This is used to hold the new water.
• Fresh, dechlorinated water: This is used to fill your tank.

You will need to turn off all the equipment in your tank. Then, use the aquarium vacuum cleaner to remove about 50% of the water from your tank. Next, use the clean bucket to fill your tank with fresh, dechlorinated water. Finally, turn on all the equipment in your tank.

Cleaning The Tank

It is essential to keep your Dragon Scale Betta tank clean. A dirty tank can cause problems for your fish.

To clean your tank, you will need the following:

• Algae brush: This is used to scrub the algae off the glass.
• A gravel vacuum: This is used to remove debris from the gravel.
• A clean cloth: This is used to wipe down the tank.

You will need to turn off all the equipment in your tank. Then, use the algae brush to scrub the algae off the glass. Next, use the gravel vacuum to remove debris from the gravel. Finally, use a clean cloth to wipe down the tank.

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Cleaning The Filter

It is essential to clean your filter regularly. A dirty filter can cause problems for your fish.

To clean your filter, you will need the following:

• A clean bucket: This is used to hold the old water.
• A garden hose: This is used to rinse the filter media.
• Filter media: This is used to replace the old media.

To start, you will need to remove the filter from your tank. Then, use the clean bucket to hold the old water. Next, use the garden hose to rinse the filter media. Finally, replace the old media with new media.

Testing The Water

It is essential to test the water in your tank regularly. This will help you keep track of the pH and ammonia levels.

To test the water, you will need the following:

• A test kit: This is used to test the water.
• A clean container: This is used to hold the new water.

You will need to fill the clean container with new water. Then, use the test kit to test the water. You should test the water at least once a week.

Common Possible Diseases

There are a few common diseases that can affect Dragon Scale Bettas.

Some of these diseases include:

• Ich: This parasite can cause white spots on the fish. The symptom of ich is usually scratching.
• Dropsy: This is a disease that can cause the fish to bloat. The symptom of dropsy is usually swelling.
• Fin Rot: This disease can eat away at the fins. The symptom of fin rot is usually fraying or rotting fins.

If you think your fish has one of these diseases, you should take it to a veterinarian.

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Preventing Diseases

There are a few things that you can do to prevent diseases in your Dragon Scale Bettas.

Some of these things include:

• Quarantining new fish: It will help to prevent diseases from spreading.
• Cleaning the tank regularly: Due to this, you would remove toxins and impurities from the water.
• Testing the water regularly: This will help you keep track of the pH and ammonia levels.
• Adding aquarium salt: It will kill the parasites.
• Adding a UV sterilizer: This will help to kill the bacteria.

Keeping your Dragon Scale Bettas healthy and happy is not difficult. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your fish stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Treatment And Medications Of Diseases

A few medications can be used to treat diseases in dragon-scale bettas.

Some of these medications include:

• Anti-fungal medication
• Anti-bacterial medication
• Anti-parasitic medication

Use these medications as directed by your vet.

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Dragon Scale Betta Food & Diet

Dragon Scale Betta is a carnivore. This means that their diet should be mostly meat. Some of the foods that you can feed your Dragon Scale Betta include: 

• Bloodworms: These are tiny worms that can be found in the wild.
• Brine shrimp: These small shrimp can be found in the wild.
• Daphnia: These are small crustaceans that can be found in the wild.
• Krill: These are small shrimp-like creatures that can be found in the wild.
• Mosquito larvae: These small larvae can be found in the wild.

You can also feed your Dragon Scale Betta pellets and flakes. These should be high-quality and should be given in moderation.

You can also feed your dragon scale live betta food. This includes live worms and live brine shrimp.

For snacks, you can also feed your Dragon Scale Betta freeze-dried foods. These should be given in moderation.

Diet Foods To Avoid

There are a few diet foods that you should avoid feeding your Dragon Scale Betta.

Some of these foods include:

• Algae: It can cause bloating and constipation.
• Canned food: This can contain harmful toxins.
• Cooked food: It contains harmful toxins.
• Raw meat: There would be harmful bacteria in it.

You should also avoid feeding your Dragon Scale Betta pellets and flakes that are low in quality. These can contain harmful toxins.

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The Importance Of A Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is essential for all animals, including Dragon Scale Bettas. A healthy diet will help to keep your fish healthy and happy. A healthy diet will also help to prevent diseases.

Some of the benefits of a healthy diet include:

• A healthy diet will help to boost the immune system.
• A healthy diet will help to improve the quality of the scales.
• A healthy diet will help to improve the quality of the fins.
• A healthy diet will help to improve the quality of the eyes.
• A healthy diet will help to improve the quality of the skin.
• A healthy diet will help to improve the quality of the gills.

Feeding Schedule

It would be best if you fed your Dragon Scale Betta twice daily. You should give them enough food so they can eat it all in 2 minutes. Also, you should fast your Dragon Scale Betta 1 day per week. This will help to keep their digestive system healthy.

Dragon Scale Betta Tank Mates

Dragon Scale Betta male is a highly aggressive fish. They are known to kill other fish. For this reason, they are not recommended for community tanks. Dragon Scale Betta female is not as aggressive as the male. However, they are still known to be somewhat territorial. For this reason, they are not recommended for community tanks.

Female Dragon Scale Bettas can also be paired with other peaceful fish. Just be sure to provide them with plenty of hiding places. 

Some suggested tank mates for Dragon Scale Bettas include: 

• Cory Catfish
• Ghost Shrimp
• Guppies
• Kuhli Loaches
• Neon Tetras
• Platies
• Swordtails
• Water Bettas
• White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Zebra Danios

Fish To Avoid

As mentioned before, Dragon Scale Bettas are highly aggressive fish. For this reason, you should avoid keeping them with other aggressive fish.

Some examples of aggressive fish include:

• Angelfish
• Bettas
• Discus
• Gouramis
• Jack Dempsey
• Oscars
• Pacu
• Plecos
• Tiger Barbs

Advantages Of Having Dragon Scale Betta In Your Tank

The first advantage is that they are very active fish. They love to explore and play with their toys. This can provide you with hours of enjoyment. Another advantage is that they are beautiful fish. They have beautiful iridescent scales that shimmer in the light. They also have long fins that flow gracefully in the water.

The last advantage is that they are easy to care for. They are very hardy fish and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They are also effortless to breed.

Disadvantages Of Having Dragon Scale Betta In Your Tank

The first disadvantage is that they are very aggressive fish. They are known to kill other fish. For this reason, they are not recommended for community tanks. Another disadvantage is that they are very active fish. This can sometimes be a problem if you have other fish in the tank that are not as active. Dragon Scale Bettas may chase and bully the other fish.

The last disadvantage is that they are mouth-brooding fish. This means the male will take the eggs into his mouth and care for them until they hatch. This can be a problem if you want to breed other fish in the same tank.

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Wrapping Up

As you can see, Dragon Scale Bettas have both advantages and disadvantages in your tank. If you decide to get one, provide them with plenty of hiding places. You should also avoid keeping them with other aggressive fish.

Also, be aware that they are mouth-brooding fish. This means the male will take the eggs into his mouth and care for them until they hatch. This can be a problem if you want to breed other fish in the same tank.

Otherwise, dragon-scale bettas make great pets. They are very active and love to play. They are also beautiful fish. Just be sure to provide them with everything they need to thrive. Do you have a Dragon Scale Betta? What do you think of them? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Fishkeeping!