Two male Siamese fighting fishes placed in the same
aquarium instantly take up
aggressive positions ready for a scrap. Their colors deepen, their long flowing
fins become erect and they suddenly slash at one another at lightning speed. The
fight is very dramatic and can last for up to an hour before one of the pair
becomes too exhausted or injured to continue. The fight is such a spectacular
sight that in Thailand contests are arranged before enthusiastic crowds and bets
are placed on the outcome of the battle. For the aquarium market the fishes are
bred for their beautiful flowing fins rather than for their fighting qualities.
It is unwise to keep two males in a tank nevertheless.
