Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are popular aquarium pets because of their vibrant colors and stunning fins. They’re also notoriously aggressive. But did you know there’s a wide variety of Betta fish breeds?
Selective breeding and hybridization of Betta splendens has led to a rainbow of varieties that come in all shapes and sizes. In fact, Betta breeds are often classified by their tail shapes, colors, and patterns.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at the most common Betta breeds, as well as some of the rarer and more unique types you might encounter.
Understanding Betta Fish Characteristics
Before we dive into the various types of betta fish, let’s review the basics.
Betta Fish Basics
These colorful fish are native to Southeast Asia. They live in shallow, slow-moving, vegetated waters like marshes and rice paddies. The betta fish has an adaptation that allows it to survive in waters with low oxygen levels: a labyrinth organ, which allows it to breathe air directly.
In the wild, bettas eat insects. They’re also known to be territorial and aggressive, especially the males, so it’s best to house them separately.
Sexing Betta Fish
It’s usually pretty easy to tell the difference between male and female bettas.
- Male bettas are typically larger, with more elaborate and colorful fins. They’re also more aggressive than females.
- Female bettas tend to be smaller and less aggressive, with less elaborate fins.
Common Betta Tail Types
Betta fish are known for their colorful and elaborate fins and tails. Here are some of the most common tail types you’ll find.
Veiltail Betta
The veiltail betta is probably what comes to mind when you think of a betta. These fish have long, flowing tails that droop down. They’re one of the most common types and are usually easy to find at pet stores.
Halfmoon Betta
The halfmoon betta’s tail spreads a full 180 degrees, forming a perfect half-moon shape. This is a highly prized tail type, and these fish are often a bit more expensive.
Crowntail Betta
Crowntail bettas have fins with extended rays, giving them a spiky, crown-like appearance. The amount of ray extension can vary, with some fish having longer, more dramatic “crowns” than others.
Plakat Betta
Plakat bettas have short fins, similar to those of wild bettas. They’re known for being hardy and active swimmers.
Delta Tail Betta
Delta tail bettas have tails that fan out in a triangular shape. The tail isn’t as full as a halfmoon, but it still creates a beautiful effect. Delta tail bettas are considered relatively calm and sociable, making them good choices for community tanks (though you should always research compatibility before introducing any new fish to your tank!).
Less Common Betta Tail Types
While the veil tail is probably the most recognizable betta tail type, there are many others. Here are a few less common ones:
Doubletail Betta
The doubletail betta is pretty easy to spot: It has two distinct tail fins instead of one. Doubletail bettas tend to have shorter bodies than other betta types.
Rosetail and Feathertail Betta
Rosetail and feathertail bettas have very full tails with lots of branching, giving them a ruffled look. The rosetail’s tail looks a little like a rose, and the feathertail’s tail has a more delicate, feathery appearance. Because their tails are so big and elaborate, they are prone to fin damage.
Combtail Betta
The combtail is similar to the crowntail, but the rays that extend from the tail are shorter and less dramatic, giving the tail a comb-like appearance.
Spadetail Betta
The spadetail betta has a tail that comes to a distinct point, like the spade suit on a deck of playing cards. This tail type is simple and elegant.
Unique Betta Varieties
If you’re looking for a betta with a slightly different look, one of these varieties might catch your eye.
Giant Betta
As the name suggests, giant bettas are significantly larger than other betta breeds. Male giant bettas can reach a minimum body length of 2.5 inches (6.35 cm). Because of their size, they need larger tanks than the average betta.
Dumbo Ear (Elephant Ear) Betta
Dumbo ear bettas, also called elephant ear bettas, have large, prominent pectoral fins that resemble elephant ears. These fins can be prone to splitting, so it’s best to keep these fish in spacious tanks with gentle filtration to avoid unnecessary stress and injury.
Koi Betta
Koi bettas are patterned to resemble koi fish, with multiple colors and markings. These fish are highly sought after and often command higher prices than other types of betta.
Alien Betta
Alien bettas combine domesticated and wild-type traits, resulting in unique colorations and patterns. These bettas have a somewhat different appearance than the bettas you’re most likely to see in pet stores.
Betta Fish Colors and Patterns
One of the most exciting things about bettas is the sheer variety of colors and patterns they come in. You can find bettas in almost every color imaginable, including vibrant reds, blues, greens, and yellows.
Beyond just solid colors, bettas also sport a range of captivating patterns. Some common examples include:
- Single color: A solid, uniform color throughout the body and fins.
- Bicolor: Two distinct colors, often with one color on the body and another on the fins.
- Butterfly: Fins with a distinct band of color that contrasts with the rest of the fin.
- Marble: Irregular blotches of color scattered across the body.
- Dragon Scale: Thick, opaque scales that resemble dragon scales.
- Koi: Patterns that mimic the colors and patterns of koi fish.
The International Betta Congress (IBC) has established standards for judging betta fish, including specific color categories, so breeders and enthusiasts alike have a framework for appreciating the full spectrum of betta beauty.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, there’s an amazing variety of Betta breeds to choose from. With their many different tail types, colors, and patterns, it’s no wonder these fish are so popular. In fact, there are more than 70 recognized types of Betta fish!
If you’re thinking about getting a Betta, be sure to do your homework and research the specific needs of the breed you’re interested in. All Bettas need the right tank size, filtration, and temperature, but some breeds may have special requirements.
With a little research and responsible care, you can enjoy the beauty and unique qualities of these special fish for years to come. Each Betta variety has something special to offer, so take the time to appreciate the unique qualities of these aquatic gems.