The Complete Guide to the Feathertail Betta Fish

Feathertail bettas are best known for their remarkable tail fin that has a feather-like pattern and is made up of multiple rays branching out from the caudal peduncle. This trait is actually caused by a mutation, which unfortunately can be accompanied by other mutations such as bad scales, short pelvic fins, or dull colors. However, despite their low vigor and difficulty in care, they still manage to attract many newbie aquarists due to the fascinating shape of their tails.

If you’re considering adding a feathertail betta to your home aquarium, then this article is for you! By providing an overview of what these fish look like, their potential health risks, and why aquarists find them appealing despite their limitations. By understanding this information, you'll be better equipped to decide if a feathertail betta is a right choice for your home aquarium.

A Mustard Gas FeatherTail Plakat

1. What is a feather tail betta?

A feathertail betta is a unique variety of the Halfmoon breed of bettas. Feathertails have a distinct, shaggy tail that looks like feathers due to their excessively branching caudal rays, thus giving it the name 'feathertail'. These fish are often characterized by mutations such as short pelvic fins, bad scales, and less vibrant colors than other varieties of bettas.

Feather tail bettas come in a variety of colors, with solid or metallic shades being the most common. They have typical Halfmoon features such as short rounded fins and a horizontally oriented caudal peduncle. However, their caudal fin is much longer than other Halfmoon strains and may extend beyond their anal fin. Additionally, their extended rays are more deeply forked than those of other bettas to achieve the desired "feathery" look.

This betta line can be more challenging to care for than other Halfmoon strains due to their delicate long fins and the need for careful management of water parameters. Besides, they generally lack the swimming ability and vitality of other lines. This can lead to a higher risk for fin diseases and infections such as fin rot or ich due to fin damage from their oversized fins dragging against surfaces in their tanks.

Despite these issues, many aquarists still find great joy in keeping feathertail bettas. They are unique and beautiful fish that offer a special challenge to experienced aquarists due to their delicate nature and specific needs. With the right care, however, they can be happy and healthy members of your home aquarium.

A Feathertail betta with an overly branched tail and fin.

2. Is feather tail betta rare?

Feathertail bettas are not rare due to the fact that many breeders use the Rosetail gene to increase the spread of Halfmoon tails, resulting in an increase of feathertail mutations in their cubs. This makes it easier for consumers to find them at pet stores or other hard-hitting sites like Petco and Aquabid. On top of this, these fish have attractive tail shapes and vibrant colors which make them appealing to new betta beginners. Finally, they are also very affordable, costing only 10 to 15 dollars on average. All these factors combined make feathertail bettas one of the most accessible types of betta fish available on the market today.

3. Feather tail betta fish facts

The feathertail betta fish is a small fish, that can reach up to 6 cm long and has a lifespan of 3-5 years. The most distinguishing feature of this species is its long tail fin which looks like a feather or fan. Feathertail bettas prefer warm water with plenty of vegetation and hiding places. 

Here are short facts about these unique creatures!

• Size from 2 to 3 inches.
• Lifespan: up to 3 years but often a lot less depending on the condition of care.
• The colors are very diverse, but not fresh and harmonious; they are either too light or too dark.
• Swimming was very poor and difficult due to the large, difficult-to-control fins.
• Fertility: Poor, possibly unable to reproduce.
• Diseases: Weak immune system, making it very susceptible to diseases of the fins, tails, and fungal infections.
• Feathertail bettas have longer fins than most other types of betta fish and the fins are usually more delicate and fragile-looking. Besides, the tail is shaped like a fan, with multiple frilly rays extending from its base. 
• They also have larger eyes and gill plates, giving them a more prominent face than other betta lines. The eyes are usually black or dark brown in color. 
• The scales tend to be rounder or “coin-like” than the scales on other betta species.

4. Distinguish from Rosetail bettas

The feathertail betta is an extreme development from the Rosetail and Halfmoon bettas; therefore, to distinguish this fish from the Rosetail line, you can rely on the shape and branching of the caudal rays.

With Rosetail bettas, the fin will just stop at the appearance of folds like the petals of a rose. Whereas with the feathertail, the fin will branch strongly and almost uncontrollably.

Distinguish Feathertail betta fish with Rosetail

5. Distinguish from Halfmoon bettas

To distinguish it from a half-moon betta, you can also rely on the characteristics of the fish's tail.

With a true Halfmoon, the fish's tail will spread to a full 180 degrees, with smooth, unshakeable edges and a straight caudal ray.

Meanwhile, a Feathertail often has an unusually long, overly-branched tail, and the spread often exceeds 180 degrees.

Distinguish Feathertail betta from Halfmoon

6. Some pictures of Feathertail betta fish

Here are some pictures of Feathertail bettas, hopefully, to help you better recognize this betta line.

A Feathertail betta fish with a lot of branching.

A Feathertail betta with an overly branched mutant tail.

A red betta Feathertail with an overly branched and split tail

A Mustard Gas Feathertail Betta Fish

A Female Yellow Feathertail Fish

7. Take care a feathertail betta

Caring for a feathertail betta fish can be rewarding and enjoyable, but it requires special attention to ensure the health and longevity of your pet. These unique fish have particular needs that must be met in order to keep them happy and healthy. From proper diet to tank maintenance, there are several key points to remember when caring for a feathertail betta fish. With the right knowledge and care, you can give your pet the best possible environment that it deserves. 

Here is a quick summary of the requirements when it comes to taking care of them.

Water: For a healthy, thriving feathertail betta, the water parameters that should be maintained are pH 6.8 - 7.2. The aquarium should have a minimum of 3 - 5 gallons with plenty of live plants and hiding places for your fish as they enjoy exploring their environment. Weekly water changes of 25% to 50% to help keep nitrate and ammonia levels low, weekly partial gravel vacuuming, and frequent filter maintenance are necessary components of tank maintenance. Additionally, it is important to regularly check the quality of the water in your tank using a test kit to make sure all parameters remain stable over time. 

Temperature: The ideal temperature for feathertail bettas is between 75-80°F (24-27°C) and should have minimal fluctuations. It’s also important to make sure the tank has a thermometer to ensure that the temperature is staying at a safe level.

Habitat: Feathertail bettas will do best if they are provided with plenty of hiding places and cover. Plants, driftwood, rocks, and other decorations can all provide good hiding spots for your fish. You should also make sure the tank is kept clean and free of uneaten food as this may lead to an ammonia or nitrite buildup that can be harmful to your fish.

Tankmates: Feathertail bettas are typically solitary creatures and do not like to share their space with other fish. If you decide to keep them with other species, it’s important to research the compatibility beforehand so that they don’t end up being aggressive toward one another. 

Food and Nutrition: Feathertail bettas are omnivorous, meaning they will eat a variety of foods including flakes, freeze-dried and frozen foods. It’s important to provide them with a balanced diet with plenty of protein, fiber, and other nutrients. You should also make sure not to overfeed your fish as this can lead to an unhealthy build-up of waste in the tank. 

By following these parameters for water, temperature, habitat, tankmates, food, and nutrition you will be able to ensure that your feathertail betta is happy and healthy for years to come. If you have any questions about hairtail betta care, let me know in the comments below.