A betta named Boba
Bettas are known for their bright colors. Boba shines brightly with red, black and blue.
Red and black with tiny flashes of shiny blue, Boba Bar, “Boba” the betta fish is not only beautiful, he is smart, curious and full of personality.
The Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) commonly known as the betta, is a freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. Bettas are known for their bright colors, long flowing fins and spunky demeanor. While it is common for bettas to hide among plants to sleep or when stressed, Boba loves attention and the company of his Castle Valley owners, Maya Bhula (9) and Ayden (7), both DCS Montessori elementary students. “When we come to the tank, he swims up to the glass and gets excited. He paces back and forth like a dog,” said Maya.
Maya and Ayden spotted Boba, nicknamed after the snack bars they enjoy, at the Petco in Castle Rock. His bright colors caught their eyes and Boba was just as intrigued by them. He was not shy and had more personality than the other fish. He kept swimming up to the glass as if he was saying hello to the kids.
When asked what he might say if he could talk, they answer, “Can you let me out so I can eat dinner with you?” The siblings also guessed Boba might like plain noodles he can slurp up.
Although Maya and Ayden have previously cared for Bob and Jerry, two moss balls, Boba is their first animal pet. They had wanted a cat but it was suggested they start with a fish to learn the responsibilities of pet care.
“They have been the sweetest with Boba. They treat him like he’s their dog,” said mom, Sapna Patal.
Bettas need clean water and a properly-sized tank to thrive. They should not be put in small bowls for great lengths of time as they need room to swim. Regular feeding is important. They eat special betta flakes, pellets or frozen or live foods. Boba enjoys black soldier fly larva.
Maya and Ayden take turns caring for Boba, alternating feedings every three days, changing his water every two weeks and deep cleaning his tank every three months, which involves removing everything and then rearranging the tank. “When we clean the tank out, he wants to know what we are doing. He comes and sniffs around all the cleaning tools,” said Maya.
Bettas are relatively low-maintenance, colorful and active, making them perfect first pets. They usually live three to five years, sometimes longer with proper care. The males are territorial and should never live with other male bettas. Bettas are also smart—they can recognize their owners, remember feeding times, and respond to attention. “Even when he is at the back of the tank, he’ll swim up to say hi,” said Ayden.
One of Maya and Ayden’s daily visits with Boba.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Maya Bhula
