Byebye My Baby Plaakard

It is raining cats and dogs outside right now. And this weather reflects thoroughly how I am feeling at the moment. Sorrowful. Because my pet Plaakard (Betta splendens, or more commonly known as the Siamese Fighting Fish) passed away this morning from a horrible disease known as Dropsy. This disease affects the fish's internal organs, causing its abdomen to become swollen and is mostly always fatal. I realised something was wrong a few days back when my Plaakard appeared off-coloured and was not feeding as readily as it should on its fish feed. Though I must say it was still devouring mosquitoes with its usual vigour. Who knows, my darling Plaakard might have saved me from potential dengue or malaria.

The little one joined my home on 25th January 2009 (Chinese New Year). He wasn't the most handsome fish on sale when I found him, but nonetheless he was the one who first caught my fancy and to me he is the most majestic looking crown tail betta ever. Here are some pictures of him settling down in his new home 4 days after I adopted him from a 100 year old market. The 2nd picture shows him with his gills all flared up into a fighting stance as yours truly agitated him on purpose so that he would produce the best colours for the photo shoot.

The sweetie was my first pet here in Bangkok. He was a complete glutton. The silly one always follows my finger thinking I am still holding on to the food when I have already dropped the food right next to his nose. I have to direct him by pointing my finger right above the food before he realises that his lunch is there.

Such fond memories.

I will always remember him in my heart. He now sleeps in peace in my garden, beneath my Jasminum. Be happy, my baby, wherever you now may be. I love you and will miss you dearly.