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Feathertail Betta
Betta splendens
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Anabantiformes›Osphronemidae
Variety of Halfmoon Betta · Feathertail
📍 Southeast Asia (captive-developed)
Elaborate mutation where the caudal fin rays branch repeatedly, creating a lacy, feather-like appearance. Arguably the most ornate betta type. Requires pristine water as the delicate fins are prone to tearing and infection.
Care Guide
Diet
Feathertail Bettas are strict carnivores requiring high-protein foods such as frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia 5-6 days per week. Supplement with quality carnivore pellets formulated for bettas. Feed small portions once daily, removing uneaten food within 2-3 minutes to maintain water quality.
Behavior
These bettas are semi-aggressive and highly territorial, especially males, requiring solitary housing or careful monitoring in community tanks. They are active top-dwellers that display elaborate fin flaring and courtship behaviors. The delicate feathered fins make them less aggressive swimmers than standard bettas, and they may be stressed by aggressive tank mates or strong water currents.
Breeding
Breeding Feathertail Bettas in captivity is difficult and rarely attempted by hobbyists due to the complexity of conditioning pairs and the fragility of the elaborate fins. Males build bubble nests and will guard fry aggressively, but the delicate fin structure makes breeding and rearing challenging. Success requires pristine water conditions, separate breeding tanks, and careful fry management.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful bottom-dweller that won't compete for food or space; minimal interaction with bettas
Peaceful invertebrate that helps with algae control and won't threaten the betta's delicate fins
Small, peaceful schooling fish; monitor for fin nipping, though generally compatible in larger tanks
Similar size and temperament but may compete for territory; only in larger tanks with plenty of plants
Large, slow-moving snail that avoids the betta and provides biological balance without aggression
Common Diseases
Fin Rot
Fraying, discoloration, or deterioration of the delicate feathered fin rays; may appear white or black at edges
Perform 25-50% water changes every 2-3 days, maintain pristine water quality, and treat with aquarium salt (1 tsp per gallon) or antibacterial medication if severe
Ich (White Spot Disease)
Small white spots on body and fins, lethargy, increased scratching against surfaces
Raise water temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform daily water changes, and treat with ich medication or salt therapy for 7-10 days
Velvet Disease
Fine golden or rust-colored dust on body, clamped fins, rapid gill movement, lethargy
Increase temperature to 28-30°C, reduce light exposure, perform daily water changes, and treat with copper-free medication or salt therapy
Fin Damage from Tearing
Torn or split feathered fin rays, bleeding or open wounds on delicate fins
Isolate in a calm, low-flow environment, maintain pristine water conditions, and treat with antibacterial medication to prevent secondary infections
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Varieties
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Quick Facts
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- diet
- carnivore
- maxSize
- 3 inches
- minTankSize
- 5 gallons
- temperature
- 75–82°F (24–28°C)
Temperature
75–82°F
24–28°C