bala sharks mating?

Question
QUESTION: Hi Benty 2 of my bala sharks seem to always rub against each other and I don't know if they are 1.trying to mate or if 2.one of them is trying to stop the other one from swimming.{ a close friend told me that #2 happens when they are trying to settle dominace. Idk so plz help

ANSWER: Hi Ghost;

My balas squabble from time to time too. It's usually a territorial thing. Once in awhile they nip each others fins but they always settle down and go back to their usual routine again in a few days. Just be sure your balas have enough space. They grow slowly but they do get to be over a foot long so they need at least 100 gallons of water to be healthy and happy.

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins

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QUESTION: Thanks a lot chirs now sorry to change the subject but I'm picking out some bettas one male and one female so if it is possible can you tell me how to pick the best male and female betta thanks. If its possible plz answer asap thank you so much!!

Answer
Hi Ghost;

Here is a web page that goes into detail about picking healthy bettas;

http://www.healthybetta.com/choosing-a-healthy-betta-to-purchase

Keep in mind that each betta needs his or her own tank. Pairs cannot live together until the actual act of spawning is expected. They also must be "conditioned" with high protein foods for at least a couple of weeks until the female has eggs inside and the male has built his bubble nest. Then they are ready to breed. They have to be separated again afterwards. The male cares for the eggs and babies and he doesn't want any help from the female. She is a threat to the nest. He will kill her if necessary. Also, if the female is not ready to breed when you put them together, he could injure her or even kill her. Sometimes it's the opposite and you get a particularly aggressive female. You just have to watch them and provide hiding places in case things get crazy in there. Keep your net handy to scoop out one or the other if you see a lot of fins being shredded. It means they aren't ready, aren't mature, or maybe just aren't suitable partners. Here is a good web page with more details about breeding bettas;

http://www.aqualandpetsplus.com/Betta,%20Breeding%20basics.htm

Good luck!

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins