Description
Scientific Name: Betta splendens Common Names: Betta, Siamese Fighting Fish, Halfmoon Betta (variety shown) Origin: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam (inhabiting rice paddies and shallow streams).
Physical Characteristics The Betta in your image is a “Fancy” or “Marble” variety, characterized by its multicolor pattern.
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The Halfmoon Tail: The defining feature of this specific specimen is the caudal (tail) fin. When fully flared, the edges form a straight line (180 degrees), resembling a half-moon.
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Coloration: Bettas come in every color imaginable. This one features a metallic blue body that transitions into white and pink/red on the fins—a pattern often called “Marble” or “Grizzled.”
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Labyrinth Organ: Like Gouramis, Bettas have a lung-like organ that allows them to gulp air at the water’s surface. This evolutionary trait lets them survive in low-oxygen waters.
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Size: They grow to about 2.5 to 3 inches (6–7.5 cm) in length.
Behavior and Temperament
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The “Fighting” Fish: Males are highly territorial and aggressive toward other males. Two males can never be kept in the same tank, or they will fight to the death.
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Flaring: When threatened or stimulated (even by their own reflection in a mirror), they “flare” their gill covers and spread their fins to look larger and more intimidating.
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Personality: They are known as “water puppies.” They are very observant, often recognizing their owners and wiggling (“food dance”) when they see you approach the glass.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Size: Despite the common myth of keeping them in bowls, Bettas need a filtered, heated tank of at least 5 gallons to thrive. Small bowls cause stress and shorten their life.
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Water Flow: Because of their heavy, long fins, they struggle in strong currents. The filter flow should be very gentle.
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Temperature: They are strictly tropical and require warm water (78°F–80°F). Cold water makes them lethargic and prone to disease.
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Diet: They are carnivores. Their diet should consist of high-protein pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
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