Double Tail Betta

Looks how to spot one

scales

The Double Tail Betta has a compact, sturdy body that looks slightly shorter than other bettas due to a genetic mutation that compresses the spine. Its most striking feature is the tail fin, which is split into two distinct, equal-sized lobes, giving the appearance of two separate tails. This variety also often has a larger dorsal fin.52

Personality what they are like

Males are highly territorial and aggressive towards other males, often flaring their gills and fins to appear larger. They will fight if housed together. Females are less aggressive and can sometimes live in groups called sororities with careful management. Both sexes are curious and will interact with their owners.13

Daily activity how busy a day looks

They are active swimmers and need space to explore. A tank of at least 5 gallons is recommended to allow for proper exercise and stimulation. They appreciate plants and hiding spots.14

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Care is straightforward but requires attention to water quality. A filter is essential, and regular partial water changes are needed to keep the water clean. The tank should be kept at a stable temperature between 76 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid strong currents as they prefer calm water.14

Home where they are happiest

A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended for a single fish. The water should be warm, between 75 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. They need plenty of hiding places such as live plants, caves, or driftwood. Never keep two males together as they will fight. In some countries, betta fighting is illegal.143

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Carnivorous. Their diet should be high in protein and consist of high-quality betta pellets as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.16

Company who they like around

Solitary by nature. Males are extremely aggressive towards each other and must be housed alone. Females can sometimes be kept in a carefully managed group called a sorority, but this requires a large tank and close observation. They can be kept with other peaceful, non-fin-nipping fish species.13

The story where it all began

The Double Tail Betta is a selectively bred variety of the Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens). It was developed through a genetic mutation that causes the caudal fin to split into two distinct lobes. Like all modern bettas, its ancestors were originally kept in Thailand for fighting, a practice dating back centuries. Over the last 100 years, breeders shifted focus from aggression to aesthetics, creating many fin and colour varieties, including the double tail, for the ornamental pet trade.75