Complete Guide to Betta Tail Types — Halfmoon, Crowntail, Doubletail & More
A complete guide to betta tail types: identifying halfmoon, crowntail, double tail, plakat, delta, and rosetail bettas, with notes on breeding and selection.

Key Takeaways
A complete guide to betta tail types: identifying halfmoon, crowntail, double tail, plakat, delta, and rosetail bettas, with notes on breeding and selection.
Betta Tail Types
Betta (Betta splendens) are collected not just for coloration, but also for "tail type" (tail fin shape), which is an important element of the hobby. Even bettas with identical colors present completely different appearances with different tail types, and collectors' values and preferences vary by tail type.
Understanding the major tail types currently available allows for better judgment when purchasing and clear criteria for selective breeding.
Major Tail Type List
Half Moon (HM) The most popular variety where the tail fin opens 180 degrees (semicircle) and is also the standard for competitions. It is characterized by a beautiful D-shaped silhouette when fully extended, with high-quality individuals having straight-lined tail fin edges. However, the heavy tail fins are susceptible to water currents and prone to fin damage.
