1. Territory: Male betta fish are highly territorial and view other males as a threat to their established territory. They will defend their territory aggressively to protect their space and resources, such as food and shelter.
2. Dominance: Betta fish have a natural hierarchy where dominant males establish their authority over subordinate males. Fights can occur to determine dominance, with the winner asserting its dominance and the loser retreating to a submissive position.
3. Courtship: During breeding season, male betta fish engage in courtship displays to attract females. These displays involve flaring their fins and showing off their vibrant colors. If two males encounter each other during courtship, they may fight to compete for the attention of the female.
4. Mirroring: Male betta fish are known to be highly reactive to reflections. When two males see each other's reflections in a tank divider or other reflective surfaces, they may perceive them as rivals and engage in fights, even though there is no physical contact.
5. Stress: Betta fish are sensitive to stress, and various factors such as poor water quality, overcrowding, or a lack of hiding spots can cause stress. When stressed, male betta fish may become more aggressive and prone to fighting.
To prevent fights between male betta fish, it is essential to provide them with separate enclosures or divide their tank using a divider. Ensuring good water quality, providing adequate hiding spots, and avoiding overfeeding can also help reduce stress and minimize the likelihood of fights.