Discover 9 Types Of Fighter Fish

The vibrant and showy fighter fish is one of the most well-known freshwater aquarium fish kept as a pet. Also known as the Siamese fighting fish, or betta fish, (the scientific name is Betta splendens) this fish is known not only for its beauty but also its feisty nature.

Native to Southeast Asia, this is a popular fish commonly found in aquariums around the globe. With their flowing, colorful tails and fins, it’s easy to see why fighter fish are so well-liked as pets. Additionally, they are a hardy species and fairly easy to maintain. Although it should be noted, two males should not be kept together in the same tank, or you will see where the fighter fish gets its name.

Amazingly, there are 73 species of fighter fish. Fighter fish are typically classified by their colors, patterns, and tail type. Read on to discover nine of the most popular species of fighter fish and learn some fascinating facts about each one!

1. Crowntail

The crowntail species has only been in existence for around 25 years. This fighting fish was named after its extraordinary tail. The average size of the crowntail grows to about two and a half inches long, although some of the males can be as long as three inches. 

Most of their length comes from their flowing tails. In fact, the tail fins on the males can be three times the size of their bodies. The webbing between the rays on the tail gives the fish an appearance of a crown.

2. Halfmoon

The halfmoon is a beautiful breed with a 180-degree fan-like tail. The tail resembles the letter “D” when completely spread out. Although as a species, the halfmoon has been around a long time, it’s only since the 19th century, when fish fighting grew popular, that this fish became well known.

The halfmoon grows to an average length of three inches and can range in colors including deep blue, bright red, purple, and orange. Its unique coloring and striking fins make it a great choice to add vibrancy to any aquarium. 

3. Delta or Super Delta

The delta and super delta bettas have tails similar in shape to the Greek letter “D” or “delta”. The tail and fins flare as the fish swims, creating a beautiful picture as it glides through the water. 

The delta and super delta tail fins have straight edges, similar to the halfmoon. But, unlike the halfmoon, they don’t reach 180 degrees. Super deltas tails flare out almost to 180, but not quite. They may span out in a range of 120 to 160 degrees. That’s just short of the halfmoon fish tails.

4. Dumbo Ear

No, the dumbo ear fighter fish doesn’t have big ears, like Dumbo the elephant. What appear to be ears are actually very large pectoral fins that stick out from either side of the fish’s face. These fins look a lot like elephant ears.

As beautiful as the dumbo ear betta is, aquarium owners should note it’s one of the more aggressive of the fighter fish.

5. Half Sun or Combtail

The beautiful half sun fighter fish is a result of cross-breeding of the halfmoon and crowntail species. The result is a gorgeous, but aggressive species with a 180-spread tail, like the halfmoon that combines with the webbing of the crown tail.

6. Plakat or Shortfin

The plakat, also called shortfin, resembles a wild betta fish. The plakat is a small fish with a short fin and a round or spade-shaped body. These are hardy fish. They aren’t as susceptible to disease or injuries as some of the other species.

7. Double Tail

The double-tail fighter fish has a distinct appearance that comes from its two tails. It’s not that the tails are split. Rather, they are two separate tails separated at the base. 

The double tail comes in a range of vibrant colors, but the double tails with white fins are some of the most sought-after pets among fighter fish. The white of their fins is almost transparent, giving the fish a beautiful and unique appearance.

8. Rosetail

The rosetail fighter fish, also known as the rose petal, looks very much like a halfmoon species. However, its fins have excessive overlapping that gives the fish the appearance of a rose.

The rosetail is a newer variety. Sadly, the beautiful tail it was bred for comes at a cost. Because of their large and flowing tails, these fish are more susceptible to injuries and sometimes struggle to swim freely.

9. Veiltail

Last on our list, but not least, the veiltail is perhaps the most popular breed of fighter fish. This fish is known for its striking and colorful fins and less aggressive nature. Its tail is long, flowing, and downward swooping. It resembles a translucent veil as the fish swims through the water. 

Besides its beauty, the veiltail is often kept by beginner hobbyists because it is a hardy fish, requiring little maintenance.

Summary Of The 9 Types Of Fighter Fish

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Mr. Witoon Boonchoo/Shutterstock.com