Ben's Aquarium Blog – Betta Botanicals | Natural Aquarium Products

Brown tangled branches and a leaf litter bed in a biotope aquarium at Betta Botanicals.

Understanding Biotope Aquariums: A Journey into Natural Habitat Replication

Blackwater & Botanical Method...and their finicky sibling "Biotope". Lets clear the muddy waters around the heated debate of what a true "biotope" aquarium is. Let's go beneath the leaves on the...

Posted on Oct 30, 2024

Comprehensive guide to recreating the natural habitat and caring for Betta Hendra, with tips on maintaining optimal conditions in a biotope aquarium at Betta Botanicals.

Betta Hendra: A Comprehensive Care and Habitat Guide

Betta Hendra, native to the dark, tannin-rich waters of Borneo's peat swamps, captivates aquarists with its vibrant colors, intricate fin patterns, and unique behavioral traits. The blog post delves into...

Posted on Nov 05, 2023

Macaranga leaves, a sustainable alternative to peat, naturally lower pH in aquariums, enhancing water chemistry for sensitive species at Betta Botanicals.

Macaranga Leaves for Indonesian Blackwater Biotope Aquariums

To create a truly captivating Sumatran biotope aquarium you will need to utilize macaranga leaves; both for their tint and pH reducing properties.

Posted on Jul 17, 2023

An in-depth comparison of biotope, blackwater, and botanical aquarium methods, exploring their differences in creating natural aquatic environments at Betta Botanicals.

Key Differences: Biotopes, Blackwater & Botanical Method Aquariums

At first glance, each aquarium type can appear the same – they each have similar elements: botanicals. But upon closer inspection, you'll notice differences in the plant and animal stocking and...

Posted on Jun 22, 2023

Exploring the ideal water temperature for both domestic and Plakat Betta fish, ensuring optimal health and comfort in aquarium settings at Betta Botanicals.

What are the Ideal Temperatures for Betta Fish?

Technically, all the betta species live in similar parameters - tropical temperatures, with soft, dark, and acidic water. However, as you explore each species and its unique environment, you begin to...

Posted on Apr 08, 2023

Exploring the pros and cons of wild versus domestic Betta fish, focusing on care requirements, behavior, and adaptability in aquariums at Betta Botanicals.

Wild Versus Domestic Betta Fish Care & Husbandry

With 73 recognized species, the betta genus offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Among these diverse species, five stand out for their unique characteristics: Betta splendens, Betta imbellis, Betta...

Posted on Jan 15, 2023