The Perfect Gold Betta defined (based on individual experience)
When it comes to the world of bettas, the gold variety stands out as a shimmering beacon, akin to the treasure of a lost kingdom. These mesmerizing creatures have enchanted many with their iridescent glow, but the journey to achieving the ideal gold betta is intricate, paved with careful considerations.
The Intensity of Colouration
The first, and perhaps the most paramount criterion, is a deep and intense colouration. What one yearns for is that rich, intense yellow base seen in those super yellow solid fish. It’s a vivid backdrop that lays the foundation for the gold betta’s striking appearance. However, a growing trend has been observed where the intensity of this base is waning. Although the yellow is still evident, it’s losing its vibrancy, settling into a more muted shade that diminishes the betta’s overall appeal.
But this craving for intense yellow is not without its challenges. The deeper and more vivid the yellow, the more uniform its distribution needs to be. If the spread of this intense yellow is uneven, it results in noticeable banding. These bands become glaringly obvious against such a vibrant background, whereas in a duller yellow base, they might go unnoticed, camouflaging within the muted hue.
Metallic Sheen: The Glimmering Veil
On top of this rich yellow base, the gold betta requires a metallic layer, reminiscent of the gleam found in copper-hued bettas. This layer serves as the golden veil that envelops the fish, adding a layer of brilliance. It should be dense, providing a robust shine rather than a weak, translucent shimmer.
A Touch of the Dragon
Adding further depth and character to the gold betta is the incorporation of dragon scaling. Predominantly needed on the body and the face or masking, this attribute offers a solid appearance, making each scale distinct and pronounced. But here’s where the tightrope walk of balance comes in: too much dragon scaling can lead to a bicolour appearance, which strays from the essence of the ideal gold betta.
The Opaque Dilemma
Lastly, while many factors add to the gold betta’s allure, there’s one element that detracts from it – opacity. The presence of opaque scales can reduce the fish’s shine and dampen its overall intensity. For the perfect gold betta, minimal to no opaque is desirable, ensuring that the fish’s brilliance remains untarnished.
In conclusion, the journey to the ideal gold betta is one of balance, precision, and an understanding of the subtle nuances that contribute to its beauty. While the vibrant yellow base forms the canvas, it’s the interplay of metallic sheen, a hint of dragon scaling, and the absence of opaque that brings the masterpiece to life. The gold betta, at its pinnacle, is not just a fish but a symphony of colours and layers, reflecting the delicate balance of nature’s artistry.
Information by Khai Betta Mas.
The above writing is based on my interview with Khai, Khai is is an enthusiast on gold betta fish and a well known breeder too.
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