How Many Species of Betta Fish Are There
So how many species of betta fish are there? There are over 70 known species in the betta genus, but only one — Betta splendens — is the domesticated betta you see in pet stores. The rest are wild betta species found across Southeast Asia, each with unique colors, tail shapes, and care needs.
Have you ever wondered how many species of betta fish are there? It is a great question. The answer might surprise you. There are over 70 known species in the betta genus. But only one of them is the beautiful fish you see swimming in pet store tanks. That fish is Betta splendens, also known as the domesticated betta. The rest are wild species living in rivers, ponds, and rice paddies across Southeast Asia.
Understanding betta fish species helps you appreciate these amazing creatures more. It also helps you care for them better. Whether you are a new fish owner or a seasoned hobbyist, knowing your betta fish types makes a big difference. This guide breaks it all down in simple terms. You will learn about wild and domesticated bettas, different tail shapes, and what makes each species unique.
Key Takeaways
- Over 70 species exist: The betta genus includes more than 70 recognized species, though only a few are commonly kept as pets.
- Betta splendens is the star: This is the domesticated betta fish species most people know and love.
- Wild bettas look different: Wild betta species are often duller in color but just as fascinating.
- Tail types vary widely: Different betta fish varieties include halfmoon, crowntail, plakat, and more.
- Proper care matters for all species: Each betta fish type needs clean water, the right tank size, and a good diet.
📑 Table of Contents
The Betta Genus: A Closer Look
The betta genus belongs to the gourami family. Scientists call it Osphronemidae. Within this family, the betta genus is huge. It includes over 70 species. Each one has its own traits. Some are colorful. Some are plain. Some are tiny. And some are quite large.
The most famous species is Betta splendens. This is the fish people call the siamese fighting fish. It has been bred for centuries in Thailand. Breeders selected the brightest colors and the longest fins. Over time, this created the stunning betta fish varieties we see today.
Wild Betta Fish vs. Domesticated Betta Fish
Wild betta fish look very different from pet store bettas. In the wild, bettas are usually dull brown or green. Their fins are short. This helps them hide from predators. Wild bettas also tend to be less aggressive than domesticated ones.
Domesticated bettas, on the other hand, are bred for show. They have bright reds, blues, and greens. Their fins are long and flowing. But this comes at a cost. Domesticated bettas can be more fragile. They need clean water and a warm tank. If you want to learn more about keeping your betta healthy, check out How To Properly Take Care Of Betta Fish.
| Trait | Wild Betta | Domesticated Betta |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Dull brown, green, gray | Bright red, blue, green, purple |
| Fin Length | Short | Long and flowing |
| Temperament | Less aggressive | More aggressive |
| Size | Smaller | Slightly larger |
| Habitat | Rice paddies, rivers, ponds | Tank or aquarium |
How Many Species of Betta Fish Are There
So, exactly how many species of betta fish are there? Scientists have identified over 70 species. New ones are still being discovered. Each species has a scientific name. For example, Betta imbellis is known as the crescent betta. Betta smaragdina is the emerald betta. And Betta splendens is the common betta.
Not all 70 species are kept as pets. Most are too wild or too small. Only a handful are popular in the aquarium trade. These include Betta splendens, Betta imbellis, and Betta smaragdina. Each of these species has its own charm.
Popular Betta Fish Species
Here are some of the most popular betta fish species you might encounter:
- Betta splendens: The most common pet betta. Known for bright colors and long fins.
- Betta imbellis: Also called the crescent betta. It is less aggressive than Betta splendens.
- Betta smaragdina: The emerald betta. It has a beautiful green glow.
- Betta mahachaiensis: A wild species from Thailand. It has a unique pattern on its fins.
- Betta waseri: A rare species. It is known for its peaceful nature.
Each species has different needs. Some prefer warmer water. Some need more space. If you are thinking about adding a betta to your tank, make sure you research the specific species first.
Betta Fish Types by Tail Shape
One of the fun parts of betta keeping is learning about tail types. Different betta fish varieties are often grouped by their tail shape. Here are the most common ones you will see.
Veiltail Betta
The veiltail betta is the most common type. It has a long, flowing tail that droops down like a veil. Most pet store bettas are veiltails. They come in many colors. They are easy to care for, which makes them great for beginners.
Halfmoon Betta
The halfmoon betta has a tail that spreads out to 180 degrees. It looks like a half circle. This shape is very popular among breeders. Halfmoon bettas are often shown in competitions. Their wide tails make them look extra fancy.
Crowntail Betta
The crowntail betta has webbing between its fin rays. This gives it a spiky, crown-like look. Crowntails are very striking. They come in many colors and patterns. They are a favorite among experienced fish keepers.
Plakat Betta
The plakat betta has short fins, much like a wild betta. It looks more like the original siamese fighting fish. Plakats are very active swimmers. They are also hardier than long-finned varieties. Many people prefer plakats for their simple, elegant look.
Betta Fish Colors and Patterns
Betta fish colors are one of the main reasons people love them. The domesticated betta comes in almost every color you can imagine. Let us look at some of the most popular ones.
Solid Colors: These bettas are one solid color all over. Common solid colors include red, blue, green, and white. Red bettas are the most popular. Blue bettas are also very common.
Multicolor Betta: These fish have two or more colors. The colors often form patterns. Some have stripes. Some have spots. Others have a mix of colors that blend together.
Metallic Betta: These bettas have a shiny, metallic look. They can be copper, gold, or platinum. Their scales reflect light beautifully.
Butterfly Betta: This pattern has one color on the body and a lighter version of the same color on the fins. It looks like a butterfly in the water.
If you want to bring out the best colors in your betta, make sure the water is clean and the tank is warm. Poor water quality can dull their colors fast.
Caring for Different Betta Fish Species
No matter which betta species you have, the basics of care are the same. But some species need slightly different conditions. Here are the key things to keep in mind.
Tank Size
Many people think bettas can live in tiny bowls. This is a myth. A betta needs at least 5 gallons of water. Some wild species need even more. A larger tank gives your fish room to swim. It also keeps the water cleaner longer.
Water Temperature
Bettas are tropical fish. They need warm water. The ideal temperature is between 76 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water gets too cold, your betta can get sick. A small heater can help keep the temperature steady.
Feeding
Bettas are carnivores. They eat insects and small creatures in the wild. In a tank, you can feed them betta pellets or flakes. You can also give them frozen or live food as a treat. But do not overfeed. Too much food can make your betta sick. For tips on feeding, see How Many Times A Day To Feed A Betta Fish.
Water Changes
Clean water is very important for bettas. You should change about 25 to 30 percent of the water each week. This removes toxins and keeps the tank healthy. If you want a detailed schedule, read How Many Days To Change Water For Betta Fish.
Common Mistakes People Make With Betta Fish
Even well-meaning fish owners make mistakes. Here are some common ones to avoid.
- Keeping bettas in tiny bowls: Bettas need space. A small bowl does not give them enough room or clean water.
- Ignoring water temperature: Cold water makes bettas sluggish. It can even be deadly. Always use a heater.
- Overfeeding: Bettas have small stomachs. Too much food leads to constipation and dirty water.
- Skipping water changes: Dirty water causes stress and disease. Stick to a regular cleaning schedule.
- Mixing bettas with aggressive fish: Bettas can be territorial. Choose tank mates carefully. To learn more about betta tank mates, check out Are Their Different Kinds Of Betta Fish.
Why Knowing Betta Fish Species Matters
You might wonder why it matters how many species of betta fish there are. The truth is, it matters a lot. When you know the species, you can give better care. Wild species need different conditions than pet store bettas. Some species are more peaceful. Others need more space. Knowing your fish helps you create the perfect home for it.
It also helps you choose the right fish for your tank. Not every betta species gets along with others. Some are too aggressive. Some need warmer water. Doing your research before buying a betta saves you time, money, and heartache.
Conclusion
So, how many species of betta fish are there? Over 70 species exist in the wild and in captivity. But only one — Betta splendens — is the familiar pet store betta. Each species has its own beauty, its own needs, and its own personality. Whether you own a veiltail, a halfmoon, or a wild betta, proper care is the key to a happy, healthy fish.
Take the time to learn about your specific betta species. Give it clean water, the right temperature, and a good diet. Your betta will reward you with vibrant colors and lively behavior. The world of betta fish is vast and wonderful. There is always something new to discover.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many species of betta fish are there in total?
Scientists have identified over 70 species in the betta genus. However, only a handful are commonly kept as pets. The most popular is Betta splendens, the domesticated siamese fighting fish.
What is the most common betta fish species?
Betta splendens is by far the most common species. It is the colorful fish you see in almost every pet store. It has been bred for hundreds of years for its bright colors and long fins.
Are wild betta fish different from pet store bettas?
Yes, they are very different. Wild bettas have dull colors and short fins. Pet store bettas have bright colors and long fins. Wild bettas are also less aggressive and more adapted to natural environments.
Can different betta fish species live together?
It depends on the species. Some wild bettas are less aggressive and can coexist. But most domesticated bettas are too territorial. Always research the specific species before mixing them in one tank.
What is the easiest betta species for beginners?
Betta splendens is the easiest for beginners. It is hardy, widely available, and comes in many colors. A veiltail betta is a great starting point for new fish keepers.
Do all betta fish species need the same care?
Most betta species share similar care needs. They all need warm water, clean tanks, and a protein-rich diet. But some wild species may need slightly different temperatures or tank setups. Always research the specific species you own.
