Body Shape and Size
Show males target 1.5-2 inches body length. Body should be cigar-shaped — not too thin (weak) or too thick (juvenile).
A clean dorsal-to-caudal "wedge" with no humps or dips. Spine should be perfectly straight.
Dorsal Fin
For Delta-tail show fish: dorsal should match tail pattern and be at least 60% of body length. Should stand erect, not drooping.
Color and pattern should mirror the tail.
- ✦Hold the fish in clear water for evaluation.
- ✦Photograph at the same angle for tracking lines.
Caudal Fin (Tail)
Delta tail should form a complete 60-70° spread. Edges sharp and straight, not ragged or split.
Color saturation should be deep and even. Pattern should be symmetric and balanced.
Color and Pattern
Solid colors must be uniform across the body. Patterns must be distinct and contrasting. No fading, no blurring between zones.
Metallic strains (silver, gold, blue, green) must show even sheen across the body.
Deportment
How the fish carries itself. Active, alert, fins fully extended at all times. A flag-waving male is far better than a clamped or shy one.
Practice handling before competition — fish that panic in show tanks rarely place.