Betta fishes come in many colors and patterns. They originate from Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia. Although the bettas in pet stores are far related to their Southeast Asian ancestors, they keep some typical traits.
Female bettas usually have simpler color and patterns, but not all are colorless. A domestic Halfmoon betta show bright color with huge 180-degree tail fin. But such bright colors would make them easy prey for birds or big fishes in the wild.
Betta Fish Colors and How to Keep Them Bright
Also, they cannot swim fast or hide well in nature.
Main colors of that fish are red, orange, yellow, green, turquoise, blue, steel, black and white. Between the blues is Steel Blue, that seems cold and grayish. Royal Blue is deep and rich blue.
Turquoise betta can seem green-blue depending on the light. Are also rare colors as orange dalmatian, metallic, rose petal and pineapple. A metallic purple lavender betta have metallic purple body with mix of purple and pink fins.
Here the most real purple bettas in the world right now. You created it from purple bettas with brighter scales.
Color comes from four different layers. The yellow layer is at the bottom. Then is the black, red and iridescent layers.
They affect each other strongly. Betta seem light purple, when copper metallic layers cover royal blue iridescent layer. If yellow and black pigments work, the fish looks brown.
Deeper chromatophores make the color of the fish darker and more bright. As a betta grows, the body will show more color. Koi- and marble bettas often turn more blue as they settle.
Such changes are normal and often happen. Stress can make fish pale or look pale. Paleness in fish that are not white usually means stress or sickness.
To help colors shine, give healthy, varied food and keep clean, warm water. Spirulina help to intensify colors. Some foods use marigold powder or chili powder to stimulate colors.
Black background in the tank makes the fish more visible. Good lights also are helpful. A heater can do much for improving color.
You should check water for ammonia, nitrites or nitrates to keep the fish healthy.
