Giant Betta Male

Betta fish, also called Siamese or Japanese fighting fish, are beautiful to look at, fun to watch, and don’t require much space at all. Most bettas sold in pet stores can be kept in small fish bowls, sometimes with plants and even other fish (depending on the species).  Keep reading to learn all about betta fish, plus some fun betta trivia.

A Fighting Fish Throughout History

Bettas have always been used as fighting fish, bred for their aggressive nature and, later, for their brilliant colors. In fact, it was a tradition for Malaysian children to pluck the fish from their homes, sometimes 50 at a time, and pit them against each other in fish fights for local bragging rights. Bettas of the 1800s and 1900s were dark and muddy-colored, turning vibrant shades when agitated. It’s only present-day betta fish that come in all the colors of the rainbow.