Betta Fish Types: Tail, Colors, & Pattern Variations

Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a type of freshwater fish that are native to the rice paddies and flooded forests of Southeast Asia. They are known for their bright colors and long, flowing fins, which can be quite striking. Most of this doesn’t come naturally and is a result of decades of selective breeding that have resulted in some astounding varieties.

The Most Popular Betta Fish Variations

Bettas are generally classified based on colour, tail shape and patterns on the body. Here is a small taste of all the different varieties the Betta fish is available in

All the domesticated Bettas will exhibit a combination of the different features listed above.

Why Are There So Many Betta Variations?

Wild Betta fish have a dull green or brown coloration on their bodies, with a red or orange iridescent sheen on their fins. They also tend to be smaller and have shorter fins. 

In the wild, the dull coloration serves as camouflage, allowing the fish to blend in with their surroundings and avoid predation. The wild Bettas also have a slimmer and streamlined body shape, which helps them swim and manoeuvre quickly. None of these qualities are of great use in aquariums or of much interest to breeders.

Domesticated Bettas, on the other hand, have been selectively bred for many years to produce a wide variety of bright and vibrant colors, as well as their large, flowing fins. This is why we have a huge variety of patterns, colors and fins in the Bettas available in the aquarium hobby.

Different Betta Colours

One of the big reasons why these fish became so popular in the first place is the brilliant colour options they are available in. It is very rare for freshwater fish to have such deep colouration and some Bettas can even rival saltwater fish.

Initially, these fish were only available in a few colour morphs but nowadays, the choices are many and new colour morphs are being bred all the time. It would be impossible to cover all of them here but there are a few color variations that are recognized by breeders and fish enthusiasts. These common colours include:

• Red: This is one of the most popular and traditional colors for Bettas. Red Bettas can range from a light pink to a deep, rich maroon. These Bettas look very good in a densely planted tank as the red offers a nice contrast to all the greenery.
  
• Blue: These are my all-time favourites. They are just so regal. Blue Bettas can range from a pale powder blue to a deep, rich navy. They have a metallic sheen to their scales, which can make them quite striking. These will look good in a planted tank as well as something more abstract or whimsical.
  
• Green: Green Bettas use to be rare, but they have become more common in recent years. They can be found in a range of shades, from light olive to a deep, dark green. This is perhaps the only Betta I wouldn’t keep in a planted tank. Something sparser with a dark substrate and background makes this Betta stand out more.
  
• Purple: This is easily the rarest colour option available in Bettas. They are a thing of beauty. They generally come with a hefty price tag. However, if you want something that is one of a kind then this is the colour to get. Purple Bettas can range from a pale lilac to a deep, rich purple.
  
• Black: Among the colour morphs that have become popular in recent times, the Black Betta has to be my favourite. There is something surreal about this variation that is just mesmerizing. Pair it up with contrasting décor and some light-coloured artificial plant and it creates an effect that is quite striking. The colouration can range from a dark, steel gray to a deep, jet black.
  
• Yellow: Yellow Bettas are available from a pale lemon to a deep, rich gold. This is another very rare and expensive colour option. It is quite versatile and will look pretty in almost all types of tank setups.
  
• Orange: This is another exotic Betta variety. It can be anything from a pale peach to a deep, rich orange. Set it up against a backdrop of a ligh-coloured substrate, white or grey décor and a dark background to create an eye-catching aquarium.
  
• White: White Bettas are quite rare but if you can find one, it is the closest you will come to having an angelic creature in your home. These Bettas often command very high prices, but they just look otherworldly especially in a tank where everything else is dark.

These are some of the most common and solid colours, but Bettas can also have different combinations of colours. Bettas also exhibit iridescence on their scales. The color hue can change depending on the lighting and viewing angle further enhancing its beauty.

Different Betta Fish Tail Variations

Colour isn’t the only defining factor in Bettas available in the hobby. Another very important physical trait is the shape of the fin. Through careful breeding, many different tail variations are now found in domesticated Betta fish. Each of these variations have their own unique characteristics and beauty. Some of the most common tail variations in Bettas include

• Veil Tail: This is the most common tail type found in domesticated Bettas. It is characterized by long, flowing fins that are rounded at the tips. This tail type is considered to be the standard for Bettas and is the one most often used in shows and competitions. If you pick up a readily available and affordable Betta, then chances are high that it is a Veil Tail. Having said that, the price and availability can vary significantly depending on the colour and pattern of the fish.
  
• Delta Tail: A Delta Tail Betta is similar to the Veil tail, but the fins are more triangular in shape and have a wider spread of about 90 degrees. These are less common and usually kept by the more discerning pet stores. If your aquarium is all about angles, then this Betta might suit it very well.
  
• Halfmoon: Halfmoon Bettas are one of the most sought-after tail types due to the 180-degree spread of the caudal or tail fin. The tail resembles a half-moon when it is flared, giving rise to its name. If you have never kept fancy Bettas before then this might be the Betta to start that journey with.
  
• Crown Tail: A Crown Tail Betta is characterized by a frayed or “webbed” appearance to the fins, particularly the tail fin. This tail type is created by a genetic mutation that causes the fins to have an increased number of rays, resulting in a ragged or “crowned” appearance. This one is a more divisive variety. Some tend to love it while other don’t. In my book, it looks quite cool especially when it comes in one of the more exotic colourations.
  
• Double Tail: A Double Tail Betta is characterized by an extra set of fins on the tail, creating an illusion of the fish having two distinct tails. This is another genetic mutation that can also cause the fish to have a shorter body and a reduced overall size. They tend to be weak swimmers even by Betta standards so make sure that the tank is set up appropriately.
  
• Rosetail: Rosetail Bettas have an increased number of rays in their fins, and this results in fins that have a thick, fluffy appearance to them, similar to a rose. This is one of the rarest variations based on tail fins and often must be specially ordered through high-end fish stores.

• Halfmoon Plakat: Halfmoon Plakats are short-finned Bettas that are similar to the Halfmoon Bettas but with a more compact body shape. They can have any coloration or pattern, but their fins are shorter.

All these tail variations are beautiful in their own way and it is a matter of personal preference which one to pick. Some of these variations are more delicate than others.

Different Betta Patterns

In addition to the various colorations, domesticated Bettas can also be found with a wide range of patterns, which can add to their overall beauty and uniqueness. Some of the most common patterns include:

• Solid: As the name suggests, solid-coloured Bettas have a single, uniform coloration on their bodies and fins.
  
• Marble: Marble Bettas have a swirling pattern of different colors on their bodies, giving them the appearance of being made from marble.
  
• Dragon Scale: Dragon scale Bettas have large, metallic scales that resemble the scales of a dragon. These scales are often iridescent, giving the fish a shimmering appearance.
  
• Butterfly: Butterfly Bettas have a pattern on their fins, that resemble a butterfly’s wings. This can be black, red, blue or any other color, depending on the Betta’s overall coloration.
  
• Multi-Coloured: Multi-Coloured Bettas have several colours present in their fins and body. They can have different fins and tail colours and are usually more striking than solid color Bettas.
  
• Koi: Koi Bettas have a pattern that is reminiscent of traditional Japanese koi fish, with large, swirling patterns of different colors on their bodies.
  
• Spotted: Spotted Bettas have distinct spots of different colours on their body and fins, which can be randomly distributed or arranged in specific patterns.

All these patterns can be quite beautiful, but some patterns, such as the Marble or Dragon Scale, can be difficult to breed consistently, and as such, they may be more expensive or harder to find. The Dragon scale, in particular, has been known to sell for exorbitant amounts. Be prudent when buying a Betta as you can enjoy a regular Betta just as much as the fanciest Betta in the world.

How To Breed Fancy Betta Varieties?

Breeding fancy Betta varieties can be a challenging but rewarding part of the whole experience. When it comes to breeding, Bettas are moderately challenging to begin with. The fancier varieties will be more so as there will be a couple of extra steps to follow. However, if you are looking for something a bit more complicated and even lucrative, this could be perfect. Here are the steps to breed Fancy Bettas

• Research
  Start by researching different Betta varieties and picking out the ones that appeal to you the most from a breeding point of view.
  
• Get The Parents
  Make sure to find healthy fish, in good condition, and having all the traits you are looking for. This is the most important step as it will determine if you end up with viable fry or not.
  
• Set up a breeding tank
  A 10-gallon tank is recommended for breeding. This tank should be divided in two sections – one for the male and the other for the female to avoid any aggression before they pair up. The tank should be equipped with a heater and a filter, as well as plants or other hiding places for the fish.
  
• Add the fish
  If feasible, I would recommend getting more than one breeding tank each with its own pair of male and female. This will increase the odds of at least one of them pairing up. Observe each pair closely.
  
• Condition the fish
  Bettas should be conditioned before breeding. This means feeding them high-quality food and providing them with stable water conditions. The ideal water parameters are
  • Temperature: 78-82°F (25-28°C)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5
  • Hardness (dGH): 4-12°
  • Ammonia: 0 ppm
  • Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: less than 20 ppm
    
• Introduce the pair
  When the female’s colouration becomes darker and vertical stripes appear along her mid-section, it means that she is ready to breed. She will also start to flare at the male and wag her body. At this point, introduce her to the male’s tank. The male will typically build a bubble nest at the surface of the water and begin courting the female.
  
• Spawning
  Once the female is receptive, the pair will spawn, the male will wrap his body around the female and press his vent against hers. Once the eggs are fertilized, the female should be removed from the tank.
  
• Raise the fry
  The eggs will hatch within 24-36 hours, and the fry will begin to swim freely in the tank. Feed them with infusoria for the first couple of days, then gradually increase the size of the food as they grow.
  
• Selecting and culling
  As the fry grow, you’ll be able to identify which fish have the desired traits and which ones don’t. This might appear cruel but culling the ones that are not desired is an important step in the breeding process

Keep in mind that breeding fancy Bettas is a time-consuming and challenging endeavour and something that can take multiple attempts to get right. It does require a lot of patience and dedication. With the right care and preparation, you can successfully breed beautiful, healthy fancy Bettas.

Also, it is worth mentioning that breeding of fancy Bettas should be done with care, not only for the well-being of the fish, but also to prevent serious inbreeding. This can lead to negative effects on the health and fertility of the Bettas you breed.

Care Requirements Of Fancy Betta Varieties

The care requirements for fancy Betta varieties are similar to those of standard Bettas, but there are a few additional things to consider when keeping these fish. Here are some basic care tips for fancy Betta varieties

Tank size: Fancy Bettas, like all Bettas, are not suitable for bowls or small tanks, they should have at least a 5-gallon tank, and a larger tank would be even better.

Water conditions: Bettas prefer warm water, between 76-82°F (24-28°C) with a pH range between 6.5-7.5. It is important to maintain good water quality by doing regular water changes. The fancier varieties need even more stable conditions than regular Bettas as they can be a bit more delicate.

Filtration: Bettas are not strong swimmers and can be easily harmed by strong currents, so you should use a filter with a low flow rate. Bettas with the rarer fin shapes should be kept in tanks with minimal flow rate as they tend to be very poor swimmers.

Lighting: Bettas appreciate a dimly lit environment, but they also need to have some light to be able to show off their beautiful colors.

Decorations: Bettas prefer a heavily planted tank or one with many hiding places such as caves, rocks, or PVC pipes. Also, make sure that there are no sharp edges in the tank that could tear their fins. The rarer colour variations could require more unique setups to show them off better.

Diet: This is one area where there is not much difference between the regular and the fancier varieties. All Bettas are carnivorous and prefer a diet of live or frozen food such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. They can also eat pellets, but these should not be the main staple of their diet.

Health: Regular water changes and a healthy diet will help prevent most illnesses. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or a change in color, which could indicate a problem.

It is important to keep in mind that fancy Bettas are on the delicate side and need proper care to maintain their health. Also, as many fancy Bettas have long fins, they are more prone to fin damage. This is why having a well-decorated tank with no sharp edges and no aggressive tankmates is important. I recommend keeping them in a species-only tank.

By providing a suitable environment and proper care, you can ensure that your fancy Bettas will thrive and display their beauty to their fullest potential.

How To Choose The Right Betta Variety For You

Based on the looks alone, everyone would want a fancy Betta. However, before choosing a Betta, consider the following factors

• Budget
• Care level
• Availability
• Aesthetics
• Genetic defects

Find the best compromise among these factors to get the Betta variety that is ideal for you. Pay particular attention to that last point. The fancier a Betta is, the likelier it is to possess multiple genetic defects. This can include blindness, curved spines, eating disorders, sterility, digestive problems, and a weak immune system. That is the price to pay for their stunning looks. Getting them from a reputable breeder will minimise the risks though.

FAQs

What is the most beautiful kind of Betta fish?

That is totally subjective. Some varieties like the purple-coloured ones tend to command a lot of money because of their rarity. However, even the most average Betta looks stunning. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

What is the rarest Betta fish colour?

Purple, Black, or White Bettas, with Dragon Scales and Halfmoon or Crown Tail fins

What colour Betta fish live the longest?

While fancy Bettas tend to be more delicate, the lifespan of a Betta primarily depends on the care provided. Having said that, the fanciest varieties like those with compact bodies could have a slightly shorter lifespan.

Can fancy Bettas be bred?

Fancy Bettas can be bred but it is a bit more complicated than breeding regular Bettas. The extra care that needs to be put into getting the lineage right and the uncomfortable requirement of culling some of the fry make it a challenging process for many.

Why are purple Bettas rare?

Procuring the right parents is a long and arduous process. Even with the best breeding pair, only a small percentage of the fry turn out to be purple and an even smaller percentage survive to adulthood. A combination of all these factors makes the purple colour morph one of the rarest among Bettas

Can fancy Bettas be kept in bowls?

Bettas, irrespective of whether they are fancy or not, should never be kept in bowls except for when transporting them

What is a King Betta fish?

This classification is generally archaic. In most cases, this name is given to any variety that can grow larger than a regular-sized Betta. The difference is minor and to most people, including me, they look the same

What is a Dragon Betta fish?

Betta fish with larger and more pronounced scales, known as dragon scales, are known as Dragon Bettas

Can Bettas be trained?

They can come to recognise their owners and some individuals can eventually be hand fed but this is completely dependent on the particular fish’s temperament and not something that can be trained using any specific training method

Do Betta fish get lonely?

Bettas are solitary by nature. The males should be kept alone as they will get into a fight to the death with other males. A couple of females can be kept with a single male provided there are plenty of hiding spots and enough space for each fish.

How long to fancy Bettas live?

Most Bettas can live between 2-5 years. The lifespan of the fancier varieties tends to be on the lower end of this spectrum.

Does selective breeding make Bettas weak?

It does. Some of the fanciest varieties like the Dragon Scale can even be partially or completely blind. Great breeders can minimise these defects which is why it is very important to procure the Bettas from a good source

Conclusion

Bettas come in a lot of flavours and there is something for everyone. The standard varieties look great, are inexpensive and are quite easy to take care of. The fancier varieties are some of the most breath-taking fishes in the entire pet world, but they tend to pricier and more demanding when it comes to care. Whichever variety you choose, these fish won’t disappoint with how elegant and soothing they are.