Betta Color Patterns

There are six major color patterns found in Bettas, and these help hobbyists identify particular variations of a species. As time passes and new strains of Bettas are bred, they will be given new pattern names if they do not fit into the existing categories. The following descriptions should give you an idea of what to look for when you are searching for a particular pattern. Note that many hobbyists and breeders disagree on exact pattern definitions.

• A solid-colored Betta will have one color (bright red, royal blue, orange, or gold) that basically covers the entire body and fin areas. Solid coloration may be marred by imperfections (small specks of white or other colors), which breeders are working to eliminate.
• A bicolored Betta has a body that is one solid color with fins that are a lighter or darker variation of the same color. For example, a Betta with a light blue body and dark blue fins would be considered bicolored.
• A Cambodian Betta has a body of one color and fins of another. For example, the body on this type may be red, while all the fins are light blue.
• A butterfly Betta has a body of one color that blends into the fins near the torso area. The outer edges of the fins are a different color.
• The Cambodian-butterfly Betta, as its name suggests, is a cross between a Cambodian and a butterfly Betta. The body on this Betta will be of one color, while the fins will have two different colors. For example, the Cambodian-butterfly can have a red body with blue and gold fins.
• A marbled Betta is unique. The body and the fin tips are the same color. The inner portion of the fins is a different color, which gives this Betta a striped appearance.