Long-Finned Types
Halfmoon (HM): tail spreads to a perfect 180° semicircle. The most popular show type. Large fins are heavy and prone to tearing — keep decor smooth and currents low.
Veiltail (VT): the classic "pet store" betta with a long, drooping tail. Hardiest of the long-finned types. Fins are easier to maintain than halfmoons.
Crowntail (CT): rays extend past the webbing creating a spiky "crown" appearance. Stunning but rays can curl with poor water — keep parameters stable.
Rosetail / Featherail: extreme ray branching gives a ruffled rose-petal look. Beautiful but the heaviest fins; many cannot swim well and tire easily.
Short-Finned Types
Plakat (PK): traditional short-finned fighting form. Active, fast, and the easiest tail type to keep — fins do not tear and the fish swims like an athlete.
Halfmoon Plakat (HMPK): combines plakat short fins with the 180° spread. Currently the most active competition class.
Giant: bred for size (3+ inches body length). Usually plakat-finned. Need 10+ gallons due to size.
- ✦Plakats are best for beginners — minimal fin care.
- ✦Long-finned bettas need silk/live plants only, never plastic.
Special Patterns
Double Tail (DT): genetic mutation giving two distinct tail lobes. Tend to have shorter bodies and weaker swim bladders.
Spade Tail: pointed center with rounded sides. Rare in modern shops.
Comb Tail: between veiltail and crowntail — short ray extensions at the tail edge.
Delta and Super Delta: triangular tails that almost reach 180° but not quite. Predecessors to halfmoon.