Introduction
The finest freshwater aquarium fish are Bettas which come from the species Betta splendens. Bettas are commonly known as Siamese Fighting Fish. They are known for their vibrant colors, unique personalities, and the many different shapes and patterns of their tails. Bettas are easy to care for which makes them ideal for beginners, but their beauty also attracts seasoned hobbyists. Understanding the different types of Betta fish is important especially for people interested in selective breeding or want to set up a beautiful aquarium.
Overview of Betta Fish Varieties
The two primary types of Betta fish are classified as either wild Bettas or domesticated (fancy) Bettas. Wild Bettas are closer to their natural genetic origins. As a result, they often have subdued coloration with shorter fins. Fancy Bettas, on the other hand, have gone through generations of selective breeding and are therefore more colorful with amazing tail shapes. Despite their differences, the two types of Bettas share requirements in tank size, water, and diet. Wild Bettas tend to be hardier and less demanding. While fancy Bettas, as their name suggests, are more delicate and require specialized care.
Types of Betta Fish Based on Tail Shape
Veil Tail Betta
The most popular Betta variety offered in pet retail outlets is the Veil Tail Betta. This tropical fish exhibits a long,rolling tail that droops downward. It is well known among novice aquarists because it is easy to take care of and inexpensive. Although Veils are not overly showy, they are often overlooked for their grace and beauty.
Crown Tail Betta
Crown Tail Betta’s tails have sharp spiky projections giving it a crown-like image making it one of the most distinct types of bettas. They are a bit more violent than the other bettas and get more stressed by fin damage. Their distinct look serves as a highlight for any aquarium which makes them popular.
Halfmoon Betta
These bettas are well known for their tail that opens 180 degrees, most seen in competitions. Their tails are described to be half moon, thus the name. These Bettas are more high-maintenance due to their fragile fins, which are prone to tearing and rotting.
Delta Tail Betta
These Delta Tail Bettas have a tail which fans out to form a triangular shape, but do not extend to the full 180-degree spread of a Halfmoon. They are also easy to take care of, and thus are a good choice for intermediate Betta keepers.
Super Delta Betta
Super Delta is a variant that has a tail spread that ranges between a standard Delta to a Halfmoon, reaching the maximum of 160 degrees. These Bettas are a perfect combination in terms of beauty and manageability. They squeak out champions in a number of dazzling colors and patterns.
Double Tail Betta
Double Tail Bettas are special since they have two tail lobes which gives the appearance of having two tails. They characteristically possess a shorter body and tend to have swim bladder complications more. Their unique set of traits makes them popular for show tanks.
Plakat Betta
Plakat Bettas are fish pets with short fins that look and behave like the wild Betta. As staunch swimmers, they tend to be more durable. Their aggressive streak combined with hardness makes them popular in the Betta fighting league in certain areas (this is, however, discouraged by so called ethical aquarists).
Rosetail Betta
Rosetail Bettas are an elaborate version of the Halfmoon because of extra fin ray branchings resembling roses. Their long fins are beautiful, but need additional care to avoid injury and fin rot.
Feathertail Betta
Even more advanced than Rosetails, Feathertails have ultra-frilly and fragile tails. Because of extreme fragility due to biting and tears, this species is not recommended for novice Betta owners. They require great water parameters and constant observation.
Spadetail Betta
Spade Tail Bettas are rare and have a spade shaped tail. Their elegant and distinct form because of the narrowing point of the tail makes them unavailable in most places, but still sought after due to their unique appearance.
Types of Betta Fish Based on Color Patterns
Solid Color Betta
Solid color Bettas have the same color on their body and fins. Common solid colors are red, blue, black, white, and yellow. These Betta fish are fairly easy to get and their striking appearance will add depth to any aquarium.
Bi-Color Betta
Bi-color Bettas have two colors, one on the body and the other on the fins. This striking combination makes them appealing and one of a kind. They are perfect to be kept by hobbyists wanting something special but not too labor intensive.
Butterfly Betta
Butterfly Bettas possess fins with two or more bands of different colors with the outside portion usually being lighter which gives off the look of a butterfly wing. It is even more stunning when exhibited on flowing tails like Halfmoons or Veil Tails.
Marble Betta
Marble Bettas have the marble gene, thus they possess unpredictable blotchy color patterns that can change over time. Their dynamic looks captivate the attention of aquarists since no two Marble Bettas look identical.
Dragon Scale Betta
Dragon Scale Bettas exhibit thick and metallic-like scales that give off a dramatic look. These scales often come in several colors with a striking difference between the body and fin colors. They are quite new but widely adored.
Koi Betta
Koi Bettas have random vibrant blotches like those of Koi fish. Their flashy look makes them a favorite for aquascape tanks as they serve to beautify any water set up.
Galaxy Betta
Representing a variation of the Koi Betta, Galaxy Bettas are renowned for their star-like sprinkled marks. The speckles frequently resemble constellations on the body and fins, contributing another dimension of beauty to your tank.
Mustard Gas Betta
A striking representative of Mustard Gas Bettas features a dark colored body, usually blue or green, and bright yellow or orange fins. The contrast is what makes them so distinctive. They are highly sought after due to their unusual color combination.
Cambodian Betta
Cambodian Bettas traditionally feature pale bodies, often pinkish in color, with boldly colored fins. They have become a little less popular in recent times, but their significance in the early days of Betta breeding makes them highly admired by collectors.
Wild Betta Species
Betta Splendens (Wild Type)
The wild version of Betta splendens is the forebear of most domestic Bettas. It has shorter fins and less vivid colors. These Bettas are more robust and have better adaptation skills to the natural environment.
Betta Mahachaiensis
Bettas Mahachaiensis is found in the brackish water of Thailand, showcasing a unique metallic blue-green color. This breed becomes more appreciated by Betta lovers because of its calm behavior combined with its vivid coloring.
Betta Imbellis (Peaceful Betta)
Less aggressive compared to Betta splendens, Betta Imbellis or the Crescent Betta is characterized by its calm nature and muted color patterns. It is ideal for aquarists wondering if they can keep multiple Betta together.
Betta Smaragdina (Emerald Betta)
The Bettas are proudly adorned with emerald green scales and are appreciated for their toughness as well as beauty. They are indigenous to the Mekong basin and do best when kept in planted tanks. They are perfect for aquarists interested in wild species.
Betta Albimarginata
This is a small and calm species best known for its soft red color and white tips on the fins. Due to its specific water conditions and breeding demands, it is ideal for advanced aquarists.
Betta Macrostoma (Brunei Beauty)
Betta Macrostoma is one of the most stunning and rare wild Bettas. The species is highly sought after due to its vivid colors, large mouth, but requires specialized care making it best suited for expert keepers.
Specialty Betta Types (Crossbreeds & Designer Bettas)
Designer Bettas come from selective breeding and crossbreeding traits. In particular, the Dumbo Betta crossbreed has large pectoral fins that resemble elephant ears. Giant Bettas are the largest in size category, requiring bigger than standard Bettas and tanks. Alien Bettas possess some outlandish colors and patterns due to their hybrid ancestry with wild genes. These specialty Bettas are exciting but often require more care and expertise.
Choosing the Right Betta Fish for You
It is essential to check your decor tank structure, level of expertise, and the Bettas each fish has temperament before acquiring the Bettas. Some of them such as Veil Tails and Plakats are perfect for the more inexperienced due to their hardness. Others like Rosetails and Feathertails need more than average attention. It is critical to factor whether the Betta will be staying alone or with tank mates because most of them are aggressive.
Care Tips for Different Betta Types
To prevent fin rot, long-finned Bettas need to be monitored closely. Wild Bettas usually require specific water parameters and softer water or slightly brackish. Most bettas will do fine with a diet of pellets, frozen, and live foods. When it comes to tank mates, choose non-aggressive, non-nipping species, and make sure to provide them with plenty of open space as well as hiding places.
Common Questions About Betta Fish Types
Q1: Which Betta fish is the most uncommon?
Brunei Beauty or Betta Macrostoma is one of the rarest and most costly Betta species because of its beauty and care needs.
Q2: Which Betta fish type is the easiest to take care of?
Likely Plakat Bettas which are among the easiest due to their hardy nature, having less health issues.
Q3: Do different types of Bettas get along with each other?
It is not recommended to house different types of Bettas together, primarily males, due to territorial aggression.
Q4: Are wild Bettas good pets?
They are, but wild Bettas usually need more precise care and specific setups that resemble their natural environment, making them ideal for expert aquarists.
Q5: What are the steps to identify my Betta’s type?
To identify a Betta, one must consider the tail shape, colors, and overall behavior. Cross-examination with reliable sources or breeders might help as well.
Conclusion
There is a vast range when it comes to betta fish and their features, both visually and in their characteristics. From novice to experienced aquarists, knowing the types of bettas can make your experience more enjoyable. However, always consider the wellbeing of your fish first before their looks, and select a Betta appropriate to your care level. Sustained ownership makes the aquarium hobby more colorful and delightful.
Last modified: April 23, 2025