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Learning activity - Betta fish

The following learning activities are suggested in relation to the propagation of Betta fish. Teacher can use these suggested topics as a template and a proposal to develop their own learning agenda.

Cross breeding in Betta fish

Cross breeding in Betta culture is almost exclusively done to achieve superior desired trait such as colour and shape of fin. The result of cross breeding program is impossible to predict unless the pair has been tried out before. Due to the uncertainty, many of the fish produced from cross breeding program were sold in lower price range and the maintenance cost to keep the fish to juvenile stages is higher. This setback is further enhanced by the fact that for Betta fish, they can change colour during grow out stages, and only show their true colour as they approach maturity.

Learning activities:

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  • To better understand the connection of cross breeding and genetic traits of progeny, by using Punnett square as a graphical representation of the possible genotypes, probability can be deduced of an offspring arising from a particular cross or breeding cycle.
  • Identify the different types of breeding programs that could be used to increase the production efficiency.
  • Analyse data provided, to advice on best practices and/ or techniques of a breeding programme that can be used and applied in Betta Lover Farm to better predict desired traits of fish. Identify the different types of breeding programs that could be used to increase the production efficiency.

 

Live feed culture

The early life stages of Betta require smallest size of live feed Infusoria5b and later Moina sp.5a, consisting of microscopic organisms found in natural pond water. Both effective ways of feeding baby Betta. Although, Betta respond well to Artemia too, the cost is too expensive for the small farm business and thus they resorted to wild caught Moina from the neighbouring area. Sourcing live feed from the wild possesses own health risk to the Betta culture and the amount is often unsustainable. In addition, the success of on-site live feed culture depends on the mass production of microalgae. Lack of space and manpower to operate the live feed culture could be overcome with a compact system that can be set up in the hatchery. (include pictures of Moina and Daphnia sp).

Learning goals:

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  • To understand the importance of live feed and factors that contribute to their successful production
  • To discuss the equipment and operation requirements needed to mass produce Moina and suitable microalgae 
  • To design a compact lower maintenance live feed culture system to fit the hatchery section of Betta Lover Farm. For example, nutritious microorganisms called Infusoria, which can also be easily made instead of buying it.