World's only aquarium for Siamese fighting fish

Have you heard of Siamese fighting fish? This is one of the most beautiful among ornamental fish and is, hence, popular among aquarists. Now, many home aquariums have fighting fish, which have iridescent bodies and multi-hued tails. Though the Siamese fighting fish may appear to be docile, they are territorial in nature and would attack any fish entering their habitat, living up to their name.

Apart from breathing dissolved oxygen, fighting fish has the ability to gulp air from the surface of the water through a special organ known as the labyrinth. This species of fish is part of the 'gourami' family and is found mainly in the freshwater environments of Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia. The Siamese fighting fish is so popular that there is an exclusive aquarium at Bangkachao near Bangkok in Thailand to showcase their exquisite beauty.

Different varieties of fighting fish and rare fish found in the nearby Chao Phraya River are on display at the aquarium, which was opened at the Punntara family resort in 2009. Siamese fighting fish, also known as Betta splendens, is a much sought-after species among the freshwater aquarium fish. The fighting fish has earned the sobriquet 'The Jewel of the Orient' for their beauty and resplendent colours. In the wild, the fish present themselves in different hues only when they are angry and aggressive. But the fighting fish, which are produced through selective breeding at the aquarium, maintain their attractive colours. The breeders have also developed varied tail forms and they can also be found at the aquarium.

The aquarium was established with the motto of not saving trees and because of that dictum the facility is surrounded by lush greenery.

A compelling outdoor experience is awaiting the visitors to the resort as a walk through the green corridor can expose one to a wide variety of birds and butterflies. The resort provides facilities for an overnight stay and you won't be disappointed if you want to cook food and stay in tents under the star-filled night sky. Tents are available for rent along with a lamp and fan. Rooms are also available.

A fetching garden on the banks of Chao Phraya River also awaits the visitors to this retreat. The garden area can accommodate 800 people and is an ideal place to host parties. An 80-seater theatre-style hall is also available where business and other meetings could be held.