Betta fish are typical freshwater fish, with their classification and ecological features detailed below:
1. Taxonomic Classification
Betta fish belong to the family Osphronemidae (Gourami family) within the order Perciformes. Common species include the paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis) and the Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens).
Chinese bettas (e.g., the fork-tailed betta) are endemic species native to freshwater basins in southern China.
2. Habitat
Geographic Distribution: Betta fish are primarily found in still or slow-flowing freshwater environments in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, such as ponds, rice paddies, and streams.
Special Physiological Adaptation: They possess a labyrinth organ—a unique respiratory structure that allows them to breathe air directly from the water’s surface. This adaptation enables them to thrive in low-oxygen water bodies.
3. Examples of Typical Species
Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis): Also known as the Taiwan paradise fish, it inhabits slow-flowing plain waters with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens): Commonly found in slow-moving water bodies like ditches and ponds. Male Siamese fighting fish are famous for their aggressive, territorial behavior (often fighting with other males).
Summary
All betta fish are freshwater species; there are no recorded instances of them living in saltwater or exhibiting migratory habits. Both their distribution range and physiological structures (e.g., the labyrinth organ) are highly adapted to freshwater environments.