Betta Fish Genus (Macropodus) and Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta)
The types of betta fish are mainly divided into two major categories: the betta fish genus (Macropodus) and the Siamese fighting fish (Betta). Although they belong to different genera in taxonomy, they are both named due to the aggressive fighting behavior among males and are widely kept because of their high ornamental value.
I. Betta Fish Genus (Macropodus)
It belongs to the family Osphronemidae within the order Perciformes. It is mainly distributed in the southeastern part of Asia, including countries like China, Vietnam, and Myanmar. It has the following characteristics:
Morphology: The body is oval-shaped and laterally compressed. The male fish have bright and vivid colors. The caudal fin is either forked or round, and the body length ranges from 3 to 10 centimeters.
Ecological Value: They have a preference for eating mosquito larvae, playing an important role in controlling mosquito-borne diseases.
Conservation Status:
The Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis) and the Chinese Fighting Fish (Macropodus chinensis) are classified as Least Concern (LC) species in China.
The Redfin Paradise Fish (Macropodus erythropterus) and the Vietnamese Paradise Fish (Macropodus spechti) are listed as Data Deficient (DD) in the IUCN Red List.
II. Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens)
Originating from Southeast Asia, there are numerous artificially cultivated varieties, which are classified according to their tail shapes and colors:
(1) Classification by Tail Shape
Halfmoon Betta: The caudal fin spreads out to 180°, resembling a half-moon, and has extremely high ornamental value.
Crowntail Betta: The fin rays are in a comb-like shape, similar to a crown, and it is also known as the King Betta.
Plakat Betta: It has a short tail, similar to that of wild betta fish, and the male's pelvic fins are long and pointed.
Double Tail Betta: It has two caudal fins, and its swimming posture is unique, but it is prone to genetic defects.
Elephant Ear Betta: The pectoral fins are as large as elephant ears, creating a strong visual impact.
(2) Classification by Color
Single Color Series (such as pure red, blue, etc.), Double Color Series (such as a blue body with a red tail), Marbled (with mottled and changing colors), Dragon Scale (with metallic-scaled appearance), etc.
III. Other Rare Varieties
Red Combtail Betta: It is a dreamy variety. During reproduction, the male fish incubates the eggs in his mouth.
Flame Panda Betta: It has a fiery red body color, with white edges on the fins, and inhabits blackwater areas.
Conclusion: Betta fish come in a rich variety. There are both native species like the Chinese Fighting Fish and highly selectively bred varieties of Siamese fighting fish. When keeping betta fish, it is necessary to choose the appropriate type according to their habits, such as water quality requirements and space needs.