Types of Betta Fish

Betta fighting fish are an easy to care for fish that can live in small glass bowls. Because the fish do not require extensive aquarium housing, they are a suitable pet for small spaces and younger children. Choosing a Betta involves deciding which type of Betta you prefer. Both fresh and salt water varieties exist, though opting for a salt water Betta will require a salt water aquarium, thus making care more costly and difficult.

  1. Crown Tail Betta (Betta Splendens)

    • Crown Tail Betta's, one of the two varieties of Betta Splendens, is a fresh water Betta known for the fan tail of the fish. The tail spans across the entire back of the fish, making the tail fin look like a crown that floats and waves as the Betta swims. Crown Tail Betta's can be housed in fishbowls or aquariums. Crown Tail's are carnivores and must be kept separate from other fish to prevent fighting; hence the nickname for Betta's, which is "Siamese Fighting Fish." This fish is aggressive and requires being housed alone, unless paired with another for breeding. Betta Splendens are the most colorful Betta fish available.

    Twin Tail Betta (Betta Splendens)

    • The most noticeable aspect of a Twin Tail Betta is the distinct tail fin of the fish. The tail is split down the middle, making the Betta appear to almost have two tails. The split tail still fans out and is wide across the back of the fish. Twin Tail Betta fish live in fresh water, are carnivorous and can be confined to small spaces. This type of Betta can grow up to three inches in length. Due to the aggressive nature of the fish, only one male Twin Tail Betta can be kept in a tank at a time. Bloodworms and brine shrimp can be fed to the Twin Tail Betta.

    Betta Coccina

    • Betta Coccina, a smaller type of Betta, is not as aggressive as other Bettas. Because of the more peaceful nature of Betta Coccina, this variety can be housed in pairs, in the same space. Betta Coccina prefer to live and hide within plants and dark spaces, which requires a larger aquarium and plenty of hiding spots for the fish. The thinner body and tail make Betta Coccina not as large as other Betta types. This fish is typically red and brown with blue eyes.

    Betta Picta

    • Betta Picta are the most easy going type of Betta. because they are not as aggressive as other varieties, more than one pair of Betta Picta can be housed together, provided the aquarium is large enough for the Betta to swim and remain active. This Betta prefers vegetative surroundings, as the fish like to hide and swim among plants. Coloring for Betta Picta is typically dull gray or brown.

    Betta Bellica

    • Recognizable by a heart shaped back fin, the Betta Bellica variety is a type of Betta that is very striking in its appearance as it moves through an aquarium or bowl. One distinct feature of the Betta Bellica, noticeable in its natural environment, is the fish's ability to jump out of the water to catch food. This is in contrast to the slower moving Betta Splendens. Duller in color compared to other Betta's, this variety is also suitable for larger aquariums housing multiple fish.