Flaring!

[lilacamy931]

He finally decided to this morning. Came as quite a shock I can tell you, been trying to get him to flare for a little while now. He decided to flare the once at me for something unknown so went and grabbed a mirror and yes we have flare lift off! Only did for a minute. Wow they are stunning and slightly scary when they do it.

Just want opinions on the whole mirror/flaring exercise - my partner is not convinced it is good for them to stress them out. Let's hear what you think,

Next step is to get him to play with marbles if he will (any tips or just leave him to it )

 

[Curiosity101]

Wild males come across others of their gender and species naturally...they flare and then one backs down. You're only mimicking this behaviour. If you left it there 24/7 then it wouldn't be a very good idea as it would be as stressful as putting two real males together. Except your boy would have no chance to remove the 'intruder'.

From what I've read I thought the general feeling was it was a good idea. But then I'm not a betta keeper. Just going on what I've read on here n on the net.

 

[Kizz]

Apparently it's meant to be good exercise for them . A few of the forum's Betta guru's used to recommend doing it for 5-10 minutes ...Plus it makes them feel better when they "Beat" the intruder

Oh any Piccies?

 

[xweeqtx]

It is very good exercise for them. Obviously not excessive flaring, which you can control a lot better than those of us with divided tanks(clear dividers!). Just as long as it's controlled, it won't be stressful. For example, if you have a mirror there 24/7 the fish will feel as though it can't be comfortable in it's environment because that threat is there.

 

[lilacamy931]

thanks guys feel reassured, hopefully this is not a one off. Will try some regular short exercises for him.

No! Did not get pictures as was too shocked and fascinated at the time, will have a camera ready next time!!

Thanks very much all!

Any news on marbles?

 

[lilacamy931]

Well we had a second go and managed to get some pics of him flaring. Slightly worried as he was REALLY moody afterwards flaring at everything in sight, me in particualr. He is normally a sweetie, normal behaviour? The extra change for him in this tank is lighting which creates reflection, havent seen him flare at just this yet, could it be a problem? Only have the light on when present at the moment.