Instructions
The Difference Between A Male And Female Beta
Take a good look at a Beta fish. If you are in a supermarket with small containers that you can lift and hold closely, you may find this task easier. If you are able to see into a larger tank, this task may take more focus.
Locate the tail and dorsal fins of the beta. Long and flowing tail fins and the dorsal fins are the hallmark of a male beta fish. Female betas may be as brightly colored as male betas, but have shorter fins that do not have a flowing appearance.
Locate the ventral fin. The ventral fin is the first fin located on the belly of the fish. Note that there are two fins on the belly of the fish. A small clear or white tube between those two fins indicates a female beta fish. This small clear or white tube is an ovipositor. The female will release hundred of tiny eggs through the ovipositor when mating.
How Do You Tell the Difference Between a Male & a Female Beta?
Betas are freshwater fish native to flood plains, rice paddies and rivers in Thailand. The male of the species is known as the Siamese Fighting Fish for its aggressive nature. Betas are naturally very dull colored fish that flash their color when agitated. Commercially available betas have been bred for vibrant color displays. Betas are carnivores with a preference for zooplankton and mosquito and insect larvae. Store bought pellets often contain shrimp fry. Betas can be fed live shrimp fry when available. Betas can live an average of two to three years in captivity.