Last updated on August 10th, 2022 at 11:57 am
Double tail betta fish, also known as twin tail betta fish, two tailed betta, or split tail betta, have a unique characteristic in that their caudal fins are shaped like two separate tails instead of one entire fin. This double-tailed appearance makes these fish stand out from other types of betta fish and provides them with an exotic look that’s sure to catch the eye of any betta enthusiast. But do double tail betta fish facts extend beyond their unusual body structure?
Double tail betta fish are extremely unique, rare, and beautiful fish that look like they have two tails growing out of their body. In fact, the word double in their name doesn’t refer to a tail but to their caudal fin which has two lobes instead of one like most other betta fish have. This double-lobed fin can be very long or short depending on the breed and age of the fish, with the longest ones found on double tail betta fish that are well over five years old!
Betta fish are known for their beautiful tail fins that come in an array of colors and designs, but did you know that there are also double-tailed betta fish? These beautiful creatures can often be confused with other types of betta fish, so it’s important to know their unique features and characteristics if you’re considering adding one to your home aquarium.
The following information on double-tailed betta fish will help you decide if this type of betta fish is right for you and your home aquarium.
Origin and descriptions
The double tail betta fish is one of many fancy breeds, originally bred in Japan to resemble a koi fish. The fish are very similar to single tailed versions of their breed, with one exception; they have two (as opposed to one) tail fins! The fins are distinct and may differ in length, shape, and number of rays.
The twin tail betta fish can come in an array of colors, including reds, yellows, oranges, and blues. Some double-tailed betta fish even display a rainbow-like coloration that changes depending on how you view it. They should be kept in tanks no smaller than 10 gallons and fed high-quality pellets, flakes, or freeze-dried foods.
Species profile
The double tail betta fish belong to the family of gouramis (Osphronemidae) and are native to Thailand. There are many different species of this fish, with some having longer tails than others. They have a short lifespan, living for about 2-3 years.
They grow up to 3 inches in length and can weigh up to 3 ounces when fully grown. Their bodies are covered in iridescent scales that give them a rainbow sheen that is truly beautiful. In fact, double tail betta fish are one of the most popular types of aquarium fish because they look so stunning!
Many people keep these gorgeous creatures as pets because they love their appearance so much. If you’re thinking about getting one as a pet but aren’t sure if it’s right for you, here are some things you should know before bringing home your new friend
Scientific name
The scientific name of the double tail betta fish is betta splendens
Common names
Double tail betta fish are also referred to as twin tail betta fish, double tailed betta, split tail betta, two tailed betta, or just 2 tails fish.
Double tail betta male
The tail of the double tail betta male fish has two lobes with one above the other. They are more aggressive and territorial than their female counterpart.
There are more vibrant colors with a beautiful metallic sheen, and they’re harder and more energetic than double tail betta females.
Double tail betta female
The female double tail betta does not swim actively and are rarely aggressive towards other species of fish, but the males act aggressively towards each other, sometimes fighting to the death.
Double tail female betta fish are pretty comfortable living at temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees F., but they are probably most comfortable at 75 to 80 degrees F.
Habitat
Bettas naturally live in tropical waters, so they need warm water in their tank. The ideal temperature is between 74 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5.
The best place to keep a double tail betta fish is in an aquarium that has a temperature of between 74 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with water that has a pH level between 6.8 and 7.6. These conditions will help you raise healthy fish. It’s also important that your tank doesn’t have any hiding places for your fish to get stuck in, because if it does, you won’t be able to spot their health problems as quickly.
Additionally, make sure that your tank is large enough for both fish to swim around without bumping into each other too much. They should each have at least two square feet of space. If they don’t have enough room, they might fight over territory or food.
Double tail betta size
These fish species can grow up to 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) in length.
Tank size
Due to their small size, the minimum recommended tank size is 1o gallons (38 liters)
Tank requirements
Twin tail betta fish need up to 10 gallons of water and a place for them to hide. Their tanks should also be in an area that stays between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re having trouble keeping your tank at a constant temperature, try adding some live plants.
The leaves will absorb heat during the day and release it at night. This can help keep your tank warmer than usual. Twin tails are pretty active swimmers, so they’ll appreciate plenty of room to swim around. Try not to overcrowd their tank with decorations or other fish.
They tend to get along well with other species if they are introduced when they are young, but don’t count on them being friends forever! It’s best to keep twin tails by themselves.
Twin tails prefer clear water, so use aquarium salt regularly to remove any impurities from their environment. You should also clean out their tank once every month or two (depending on how many fish you have).
Tank mates
This species of betta fish is peaceful and can be kept with a wide variety of tank mates including tetras, livebearers, catfish, loaches, corydoras, and many more. Keep in mind that larger or more aggressive tank mates may pick on your betta if they are similar in coloration.
Other good tank mates are other betta fish, but be careful of aggression. It is not recommended to keep two male bettas together because they will fight for territory and cause harm to each other.
Breeding
While male twin tail betta fish can be territorial and aggressive, females are relatively calm and make a great addition to any aquarium. In fact, some experts recommend breeding them in pairs to ensure that their offspring have the best chance at survival.
However, don’t try putting them in with other female betta fish; they may not get along well if they have been kept separate from one another for too long. Consider keeping them separate from more aggressive species as well, such as angelfish or sharks. When it comes to the time to breed your double tails, keep in mind that females are often very protective of their eggs and will guard them aggressively against predators like other fish.
This is normal behavior, don’t worry about it! Once you see eggs on your tank floor (they look like little white dots), move your female into a breeder tank so she doesn’t eat her own young.
She should continue guarding them until they hatch, which takes about 24-48 hours. If you notice that there aren’t many eggs left after 24 hours, remove her immediately and place her back in your main tank. She may have eaten some of her babies by accident! After hatching, fry remains near their mother for up to five days before venturing off on their own.
Are they aggressive or peaceful?
Double tail betta fish are a little more aggressive than single tail betta. They can be aggressive to other double tail betta fish, especially when food is involved.
Double tail betta fish care
Double tail betta fish are relatively easy to care for, as long as you set up a big enough tank and make sure to keep it clean. Although they are a bit more finicky than your standard betta fish, their unique looks will be more than make up for any extra effort! They prefer cooler waters. Keep their tank between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
These temperatures will keep them healthy without stressing them out too much. A good rule of thumb is that if you can comfortably put your hand in the water, then it’s probably at a good temperature. The best way to ensure that double tail betta fish stay happy is by keeping their tank clean and making sure that they have plenty of space to swim around in.
Be careful not to overstock their tank with decorations or plants, though; these can easily clog filters or become homes for unwanted pests like snails.
What they eat
A double tail betta fish is a carnivore. They feed on brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex worms. The fish will prefer a bloodworm diet over any other; however, if they can’t find it, they will be more than happy to eat another type of worm as well.
Double tail betta lifespan
They can live for 2-3 years with proper water parameters.
Parasites and diseases
Double tail betta fish are particularly susceptible to parasites and diseases, due to their weak immune systems. It’s a good idea to quarantine your fish before introducing them into an established tank, as it will ensure they’re healthy and safe for your other fish.
This can be done by setting up another tank with new water and putting your double tail betta fish in there with some food and medication (if needed). Keep double tails separate from other fish for at least a week. If all goes well, you can then add them to your existing tank. If not, repeat until you have success!
Predators
As double tail betta fish live in tropical waters, they have some natural predators to watch out for. A two-tailed betta’s most dangerous natural enemy is another male of its species. Two-tailed betta fish are territorial and will fight to the death over their territory. Another threat comes from other predatory species that inhabit tropical waters such as barracuda and piranha.
Do they make good pets?
Betta fish make great pets. They’re fairly small, and colorful, which is an added bonus for most pet owners. There are two-tailed betta fish that are even more interesting to look at than their single-tailed friends. If you’re considering bringing home a new pet, perhaps a double-tailed or split-tailed betta would be your perfect fit!
