Betta splendens

Betta splendens is a species of freshwater fish in the genus Betta. Bettas are also called betta fish or Siamese fighting fish. They are called Siamese fighting fish because people used to make them fight each other.^[1] Betta splendens are native to Thailand. They are a popular aquarium fish species. They are known for their interesting behavior, bright colors, and ability to breathe air.

Betta (Siamese fighting fish)
Male Betta Fish (Veiltail variety)
Female Betta Fish
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Actinopterygii
Order:	Anabantiformes
Family:	Osphronemidae
Genus:	Betta
Species:	B. splendens
Binomial name
Betta splendens Regan, 1910

In the wild

In the wild, bettas live in rice paddies, canals, and small rivers.^[2]

Betta splendens is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.^[3] This means that Betta splendens may become endangered soon.

Appearance

Males are more colorful and usually have larger fins than the females.^[1] There are many color patterns and fin types of Betta splendens. Female bettas have a pointier shape at their stomachs. Betta splendens can be up to 6.5 centimeters long.^[2]

Breeding

The Siamese fighting fish has been bred to have large and colorful fins. Wild Betta splendens do not have bright colors. Bettas are a popular aquarium fish. They are known for their interesting behavior and ability to breathe air. A popular fin type is the veiltail, which has long droopy fins that look like a dress. Red and blue are the most common colors in betta fish. Some people think that white, black, and green bettas are rare. Before a male Betta splendens begins to mate with a female, the male betta will create a nest of bubbles by blowing mucus-coated bubbles towards the surface of the water.^[4]

Behavior

If betta fish are kept in a small area, the males will fight each other. Bettas will also nip (bite) the fins of some fish. If a male betta engages with an opponent male, the betta will make his fins flare up, position his gill covers outwards, and move his tail in a lateral beating movement. They can also get aggressive if they see their own reflection.^[4]