Betta Rosetail Male

Betta Rosetail Male

Common Name

Rosetail Betta (Male)

Scientific Name

Betta splendens

Origin

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)
(Most Rosetail Bettas are captive-bred)

 

Appearance & Coloration

Rosetail Bettas are distinguished by their extremely large, ruffled fins with excessive branching, creating a rose-like appearance when fully flared. Their bodies are compact but their fins dominate their silhouette, making them a visually stunning centerpiece. Color varieties include red, blue, white, black, and multicolor patterns, often with iridescent or metallic highlights.

 

Fin Type

Rosetail (extreme branching of caudal, dorsal, and anal fins)
Fin spread may exceed standard Half Moon proportions, creating an extravagant, decorative appearance. Due to the delicate fins, care must be taken to prevent tearing.

 

Temperament

Semi-aggressive to aggressive.
Male Rosetail Bettas are territorial and should be housed alone. Females may be housed together in sororities but require careful monitoring.

 

Tank Size

Minimum 5 gallons recommended.
Larger tanks (10+ gallons) provide stable water and reduce fin damage risk.

 

Tank Setup

• Heated freshwater aquarium

• Gentle filtration with minimal flow

• Smooth décor, silk or live plants to protect delicate fins

• Floating plants and resting areas recommended

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Stable water conditions are critical for fin health and stress prevention.

 

Filtration & Flow

Low flow only.
Rosetail Bettas are especially sensitive to strong currents due to their large, delicate fins.

 

Diet

Carnivorous.

 

Feeding

• High-quality Betta pellets or granules

• Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily
  Avoid overfeeding; Rosetails are prone to bloating and swim bladder issues.

 

Compatibility

• Best housed alone

• Peaceful, non-fin-nipping tank mates can be added in larger aquariums

• Never house two male Rosetails together

 

Health & Care Notes

• Susceptible to fin rot, tearing, and stress-related illness

• Regular water changes (25–30% weekly) are essential

• Monitor for clamped fins, discoloration, or torn edges

 

Care Level

Moderate

Not recommended for brand-new beginners due to fin fragility, but manageable for intermediate aquarists.

 

Signs of Good Health

• Bright, vibrant coloration

• Full, ruffled fin extension

• Active swimming and alert behavior

• Strong feeding response

 

Signs of Stress or Illness

• Clamped or shredded fins

• Lethargy or hiding

• Color dulling

• Refusal to eat

 

Fun Fact

The Rosetail Betta gets its name from the “rose-like” layered appearance of its fins, which are considered the pinnacle of Betta fin morphology for collectors and show enthusiasts.