Double Tail Fighter 5cm

Double Tail Fighter

There isn't a fish more globally recognised than the classic fighter fish. They have been in the aquarium industry since the late 1800s, which shows just how incredibly popular they are. Of the hundreds of colour and genetic variations now available in the aquarium hobby, double-tail fighter has to be one of the more unique ones visually.

Unlike traditional bettas, which have a single flowing caudal fin, double-tail bettas possess two distinct lobes that split from the base of the tail, giving them a bold, heart or fan-like appearance that looks stunning in motion. These bettas come in a wide variety of colours and patterns, from electric blues and fiery reds to metallic sheens and marbled blends. Their large, flowing fins paired with the split tail give them an elegant, almost regal presence in the aquarium, especially when they flare or display. However, with the increased surface area of their fins, double tails may be slightly more prone to fin damage and require a gentler tank setup than more streamlined varieties.

Bettas in general have developed a few false reputations. The first being that they can thrive in incredibly small environments like vases and jugs, which is not true. Much like any aquarium fish, they need proper filtration and a spacious environment relative to their max size of 5-6 cm. The second common misconception is that they are aquarium terrors, which will kill every fish on sight. Though male fighters are aggressive to other males and potentially aggressive in tight environments, in a standard 35-40L aquarium, they can be kept with peaceful community fish under the right conditions. They are also a hardy tropical fish which can be kept in temperatures between 24-28°C and make for a fun breeding project due to the challenge of conditioning both male and female to breed and raising the fry. Bettas are naturally found in the waterways of Southeast Asia.

Tank Recommendations for your Double Tail Fighter

Double tail bettas max out at around the 5-6 cm mark and are surprisingly active and flashy fish, which is why they would be great in a nano aquarium with a minimum volume of 35 litres. They will, however, be a fantastic centrepiece fish in larger peaceful aquariums with slow-moving fish. The substrate of the aquarium is not too much of a concern; however, double tail fighters will love a well-planted aquarium. This not only allows them to contrast beautifully against the bright greenery but also provides plenty of places to retreat and feel secure. Adding dark backgrounds and soft leaf plants like Anubias or Java Fern can make their colours absolutely pop.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Double-tail fighters are relatively peaceful fish when paired correctly and can often be bullied by faster tank mates that nip at their trailing fins. Their slow swimming style also means they can easily be outcompeted during feeding time, so careful selection of tank mates is necessary.

Usually Compatible

Small tetras such as embers, along with corydoras, loaches, and similar peaceful fish

Sometime Compatible

dwarf cichlids such as Bolivian rams, or apistogramma, which may show aggression, or fast-moving species such as giant danios, torpedo barbs, or black widow tetras, which might be too fast and outcompete the betta.

Rarely Compatible

Shrimp, other male betta, and fin-nipping species.

Feeding your Double Tail Fighter

Double-tail betta fish are incredibly easy to feed. They take to a wide range of foods and should have a varied diet for optimal health. Giving them a range of flake, pellets, frozen, and live foods will not only make them thrive but also show off amazing colours. Because of their mostly top-dwelling nature, they should be given foods that readily float for them to eat easily. Feeding should occur once a day, and it is best to do so when the lights are on during the day.