28/08/2025
‘Have you got any Bettas in stock?’
This is a question we are often asked, sometimes several times a day.
We’ll often reply with ‘Which species are you referring to?’ – This isn’t a cocky response in any shape or form. Unknowingly to many, Betta (pronounced bet-tuh – sounds like better) is the genus, and within the Betta genus there are a plethora of species (a good 75+ species!), some that you do see in hobby, and some that you sadly don’t (or don’t anymore).
Often, when people are asking if we have any betta in stock, they’re usually referring to manmade forms of Betta splendens – Siamese Fighting Fish, and yes, we normally have a great selection available.
Veiltail, dumbo, half-moon, full moon, mustard gas, super dragon, koi, crown tail and plakat to name a few are what you’re likely to encounter at Wharf Aquatics. They are all domestic forms of Betta splendens.
But what about the giants? Well, they are still the same species but have been selectively bred over many generations, by breeding the largest fish from each generation, eventually resulting in bigger fish.
When it comes to pricing, a male veiltail is the cheapest of the males and will set you back £10.00 and depending on fin shape and colour etc. the prices increase. Half-moon, full moon and super dragons tend to hover around £18.00, dumbos at £22.00 and a halfmoon plakat (HMPK) koi costing £25.00. The most expensive are the male giants, and a price tag of around £45.00 can be expected.
Females on the other hand are cheaper, typically hovering around £6.00-£8.00. The most expensive females are the koi at £10.00 each.
Can you keep male and female together – this is a question that causes the alarm bells to chime and doing so often ends in disaster (we are aware of exceptions, but we must go with the most likely outcome) – please ask. If you’re considering breeding this fish, you’ll obviously need a male and female, and they will have to be carefully introduced to each other. Feel free to ask our very own Alan for details on breeding and raising these beautiful fish.
For those of you that are on the lookout for other species of Betta, we are always happy to scour the import lists and order in specifics. So, if there’s a species you’re interested in, feel free to let us know and we will try our best to obtain it 😊
Please see the images attached showing a B. splendens and other species from the Betta genus.
For further information please contact us on 01773861255 - Tropical Department.
