SIAMESE FIGHTING FISH

(Betta splendens), freshwater tropical fish of the family Belontiidae (classified by some authorities as Anabantidae; order Perciformes), noted for the pugnacity of the males toward one another. The Siamese fighting fish, a native of Thailand, was domesticated there for use in contests. Combat consists mainly of fin nipping and is accompanied by a display of extended gill covers, spread fins, and intensified colouring. The fish, elongated and slender, grows to a length of about 6.5 centimetres (2.5 inches). In the wild it is predominantly greenish or brown with moderately sized red fins; under domestication it has been bred with long, flowing fins and in a variety of colours, such as red, green, blue, and lavender. See also labyrinth fish.