Elephant Ear

Elephant ear bettas are the pectoral-fin form of Betta splendens commonly called dumbo bettas. Instead of being defined by the tail, they are recognized by oversized pectoral fins that spread outward from behind the gills. These fins may look like white paddles, translucent fans, or colored extensions of the body, depending on the line. Elephant ear can be combined with many other labels, so a fish may be an elephant ear halfmoon, elephant ear plakat, dragon scale elephant ear, or koi elephant ear at the same time.

Because the enlarged pectorals are in constant use, good husbandry should reduce unnecessary swimming strain. A modest current, warm stable water, and open access to the surface suit them better than tall, turbulent tanks. Adult males are usually housed singly unless a keeper is managing breeding under close supervision, and females vary in temperament. When selecting a fish, watch it cruise, turn, and hover rather than judging only a flaring photo; both pectoral fins should be intact and functional. Breeders working with elephant ear stock balance pectoral size with stamina, since overly heavy fins can make an otherwise attractive fish less comfortable.

Colors: Alien, Bicolor, Butterfly, Cambodian, Cellophane, Copper, Crowntail, Delta, Double Tail, Dragon Scale, Dumbo, Elephant Ear, Galaxy Koi, Grizzle, Halfmoon, Koi, Marble, Metallic, Multicolor, Mustard Gas, Nemo, Plakat, Rosetail, Samurai, Solid, Super Delta, Veiltail, Wild Type