If you’ve ever watched a betta fish flare its gills, ripple its flowing fins, and glide through the water like a living jewel, you know these aren’t just fish they’re aquatic royalty. Native to the rice paddies and slow-moving streams of Southeast Asia, bettas (Betta splendens) are celebrated for their vibrant colors, dramatic fin shapes, and unmistakably fiery personality. From the regal Crown Betta with its towering dorsal fin to the ethereal Halfmoon with fins that span 180 degrees, each variety is a masterpiece of selective breeding and natural elegance. Naming such a striking creature deserves more than a random pick; it calls for a moniker that honors their fin shape, color intensity, and bold spirit. In this comprehensive guide we present 60 betta fish names based on fin shape, vibrant colors & fiery personality (including Crown Betta!), curated from mythology, gemstones, fire symbolism, and aquatic poetry. Whether your betta is a deep blue Delta, a red Veiltail warrior, or a rare multicolored Crown Betta, you’ll find a name that’s as dazzling and dynamic as they are.
Why Your Betta Fish Deserves a Name That Matches Their Majesty
Betta fish are among the most expressive and visually stunning freshwater species kept in home aquariums. Unlike many fish that school or hide, bettas are solitary performers they interact with their environment, recognize their owners, and even respond to movement outside the tank. Their fiery personality (especially in males, who are territorial and proud) is matched only by their vibrant colors and elaborate fin shapes, which have been refined over centuries of breeding.
A thoughtful name does more than label your pet; it:
- Reflects their unique physical traits (e.g., Crown Betta’s tall dorsal)
- Honors their cultural origins (Thailand, formerly Siam, where they’re national symbols)
- Enhances your emotional connection through daily use
- Adds dignity to their role as a living work of art
Moreover, while bettas don’t “respond” to names like dogs, consistent vocalization during feeding or tank maintenance helps them associate your voice with care making a melodic, meaningful name part of your shared ritual.
Aquarist Insight: In Thailand, bettas are called pla kat, meaning “fighting fish” but modern keepers celebrate their beauty, not aggression. Choose names that reflect their elegance, not combat.
Betta Fish Names Inspired by Fin Shape: Honoring Their Aquatic Silhouette
One of the most defining features of a betta is its fin shape. From the flowing Veiltail to the structured Crowntail, each type has a distinct profile that inspires naming ideas rooted in architecture, royalty, and nature.
Crown Betta & Crowntail Names (Spiky, Regal Fins)
The Crown Betta (a dramatic variant of the Crowntail) features elongated rays that create a jagged, crown-like dorsal and caudal fin. Names should evoke royalty, spikes, or celestial halos:
- Regis – Latin for “king”; sleek and scholarly
- Corona – Latin for “crown”; also a celestial term
- Thorne – Sharp, regal, and strong
- Halcyon – Mythical bird; also implies calm beauty
- Aureole – Radiant crown of light; poetic and rare
- Spike – Direct and bold
- Crown – Simple and iconic
- Orion – Hunter constellation; strong and starry
Note: “Crown Betta” is a marketing term for extreme Crowntails use fin-based names to honor their structure.
Halfmoon & Delta Names (Full, Fan-Like Tails)
Halfmoon bettas display a perfect 180° tail like a blooming flower or open fan:
- Fan – Minimalist and accurate
- Lotus – Sacred flower; serene and beautiful
- Peacock – Iridescent and showy
- Sail – Evokes wind-filled movement
- Ripple – Gentle wave motion
- Blossom – Full of life and color
- Aria – Melodic and flowing
- Vela – Latin for “sail”; elegant and short
Pro Tip: For Over-Halfmoon (OHM) bettas, consider Zenith or Apex names that suggest going beyond limits.
Veiltail & Plakat Names (Flowing vs. Compact Fins)
Veiltails have long, trailing fins; Plakats (short-finned, closer to wild type) are athletic and streamlined:
Veiltail Names:
- Silk – Smooth and flowing
- Gossamer – Delicate, filmy fabric
- Veil – Direct and poetic
- Lace – Ornate and intricate
- Mist – Soft and ethereal
Plakat Names:
- Blade – Sharp and fast
- Jet – Sleek and speedy
- Rook – Chess piece; strategic and strong
- Fang – Bold and primal
- Kai – Means “sea” or “spirit”; versatile and short
Fun Fact: Plakats are often used in traditional Thai fish fighting but as pets, they’re agile and curious companions.
Vibrant Color-Based Betta Fish Names: From Electric Blue to Fiery Red
Bettas come in nearly every color imaginable thanks to selective breeding and structural coloration (where light refracts off skin cells). Your betta’s vibrant colors are a primary source of naming inspiration, whether they’re solid, bi-colored, or metallic.
Red, Orange & Fiery Hues
Red bettas are the most iconic symbolizing passion, energy, and courage:
- Ember – Glowing coal; warm and intense
- Blaze – Fierce and bright
- Crimson – Deep, rich red
- Scarlet – Bold and classic
- Rouge – French for “red”; chic and short
- Phoenix – Mythical fire bird; rebirth and power
- Flame – Simple and dynamic
- Cayenne – Spicy and vibrant
Caution: Avoid “Dragon” unless your betta is truly massive it can feel exaggerated for a 2.5-inch fish.
Blue, Teal & Iridescent Tones
Blue bettas range from steel to royal, often with iridescent scales that shift in light:
- Azure – Bright sky blue
- Cobalt – Deep, electric blue
- Navy – Dark and dignified
- Indigo – Mystical and rich
- Opal – Iridescent gem; perfect for multicolored blues
- Neptune – Roman sea god; cool and commanding
- Zephyr – Gentle west wind; airy and light
- Quill – Sleek and inky
Pro Idea: For turquoise or teal bettas, consider Aqua, Mint, or Tide.
Purple, Lavender & Rare Pastels
Purple bettas are rarer and highly prized:
- Amethyst – Purple gemstone; regal and smooth
- Lavender – Soft and floral
- Violet – Classic and poetic
- Orchid – Exotic flower; delicate and rare
- Lilac – Pale purple; gentle and sweet
- Mauve – Subtle and vintage
- Grape – Playful and fruity
- Plum – Rich and deep
Note: True purple requires specific genetics celebrate its rarity with names like Royale or Velvet.
White, Yellow & Metallic Varieties
From platinum whites to golden yellows and coppery metallics:
White/Platinum:
- Pearl – Lustrous and pure
- Frost – Cool and crisp
- Ivory – Warm white
- Snow – Simple and classic
- Alabaster – Smooth stone; elegant and rare
Yellow/Gold:
- Sunny – Cheerful and bright
- Goldie – Retro but radiant
- Topaz – Golden gem
- Honey – Warm and sweet
- Marigold – Vibrant flower
Metallic/Copper:
- Copper – Direct and earthy
- Bronze – Historic and strong
- Russet – Reddish-brown; autumnal
- Penny – Quirky and cute
- Aureus – Latin for “golden”; scholarly and rare
Bonus: For Koi or Galaxy bettas (multicolored), consider Nebula, Mosaic, or Prism.
Fiery Personality-Inspired Betta Names: For the Bold, Proud & Playful
Despite their delicate appearance, bettas have a fiery personality. Males flare at reflections, build bubble nests with pride, and “dance” during courtship. Even in solitary tanks, they display curiosity, territoriality, and surprising intelligence. Names that capture their bold spirit add depth to their identity.
Regal & Proud Names
For the betta who rules their tank like a monarch:
- Khan – Mongol emperor; strong and historic
- Caesar – Roman leader; authoritative
- Pharaoh – Egyptian king; iconic and bold
- Sultan – Islamic ruler; exotic and commanding
- Monarch – Ruler and butterfly; dual meaning
- Valkyrie – Norse chooser of the slain; fierce and noble
- Empress – Feminine power (great for females, who are often calmer but still proud)
- Titan – Primordial giant; immense presence
Tip: Female bettas can be just as colorful use regal names for them too!
Mythological & Elemental Fire Names
Draw from global fire myths and symbols:
- Vulcan – Roman god of fire and forge
- Agni – Hindu god of fire; sacred and powerful
- Prometheus – Titan who stole fire for humanity (use “Prom” for short)
- Ra – Egyptian sun god; radiant and life-giving
- Hestia – Greek goddess of hearth and home; warm and nurturing
- Salamander – Mythical fire lizard; unique and bold
- Ignis – Latin for “fire”; short and sharp
- Fenix – Alternative spelling of Phoenix; fresh and fiery
Cultural Note: Use mythological names with respect research origins before choosing.
Playful & Spirited Names
Not all bettas are solemn many are curious, active, and full of zip:
- Zippy – Fast and energetic
- Dash – Quick and spirited
- Rascal – Mischievous and charming
- Jett – Sleek and speedy
- Pip – Tiny but full of life
- Nimbus – Rain cloud; soft contrast to fiery looks
- Quill – Sharp yet elegant
- Rogue – Independent and daring
Pro Insight: Bettas often “follow” your finger around the tank names like Scout or Rover honor their curiosity.
How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your Betta Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide
With so many betta fish names based on fin shape, vibrant colors & fiery personality (including Crown Betta!), how do you pick the right one? Follow this expert framework used by aquarists, breeders, and fish enthusiasts.
Step 1: Identify Your Betta’s Fin Type
- Crowntail/Crown Betta: Spiky rays → Corona, Thorne, Regis
- Halfmoon: Full fan → Lotus, Peacock, Aria
- Veiltail: Flowing → Silk, Veil, Mist
- Plakat: Short fins → Blade, Jet, Kai
Tip: Use a fin shape chart online if unsure many bettas are hybrids (e.g., Halfmoon Crowntail).
Step 2: Match Name to Dominant Color
- Red: Ember, Blaze, Phoenix
- Blue: Azure, Cobalt, Neptune
- Purple: Amethyst, Violet, Orchid
- White: Pearl, Frost, Alabaster
- Multicolored: Prism, Nebula, Mosaic
Note: Lighting affects color observe in natural daylight for accuracy.
Step 3: Observe Personality Over Time
Spend a week noting:
- Does your betta flare often (proud)?
- Do they build bubble nests (creative)?
- Are they curious or shy?
- Do they “dance” when you approach?
Let behavior guide your theme.
Step 4: Prioritize Aesthetic & Sound
You’ll say this name aloud often to guests or in care logs. Choose names that:
- Are 1–2 syllables (“Kai,” “Luna,” “Blaze”)
- Flow smoothly (“Amethyst” vs. “Xylophage”)
- Feel harmonious with your tank’s mood
Red Flag: Avoid harsh, aggressive names (“Killer,” “Viper”) they contradict betta elegance.
Step 5: Consider Cultural Respect & Longevity
- Research mythological names for meaning
- Avoid sacred terms unless part of your practice
- Ask: “Will this name suit a 3-year-old senior betta?”
Final Tip: Write the name on a small, waterproof tag near the tank as a mindful reminder of their beauty.
Top 60 Betta Fish Names Based on Fin Shape, Color & Personality
To help you decide, here’s our complete list of 60 betta fish names based on fin shape, vibrant colors & fiery personality (including Crown Betta!):
Crown Betta & Crowntail
- Regis
- Corona
- Thorne
- Aureole
- Spike
- Crown
- Orion
- Halcyon
Halfmoon & Delta
- Lotus
- Peacock
- Sail
- Blossom
- Aria
- Vela
- Fan
- Ripple
Veiltail & Plakat
- Silk
- Gossamer
- Veil
- Lace
- Blade
- Jet
- Rook
- Kai
Red & Fiery
- Ember
- Blaze
- Crimson
- Phoenix
- Flame
- Cayenne
- Rouge
- Scarlet
Blue & Iridescent
- Azure
- Cobalt
- Neptune
- Opal
- Indigo
- Quill
- Zephyr
- Navy
Purple & Pastel
- Amethyst
- Violet
- Orchid
- Lavender
- Lilac
- Plum
- Mauve
- Grape
White, Yellow & Metallic
- Pearl
- Frost
- Sunny
- Topaz
- Copper
- Bronze
- Alabaster
- Honey
Fiery Personality
- Khan
- Vulcan
- Zippy
- Valkyrie
Pro Idea: For multiple bettas (in separate tanks), name them after elements: Ember, Azure, Terra, Zephyr.
Final Thoughts: Name with Intention, Care with Reverence
Choosing from our 60 betta fish names based on fin shape, vibrant colors & fiery personality (including Crown Betta!) is more than a creative exercise it’s an act of reverence for one of nature’s most exquisite aquatic designs. Your betta isn’t just a pet; they’re a living sculpture, a daily performance, and a splash of color that transforms your space. By giving them a name that honors their fin shape, vibrant colors, and fiery spirit, you deepen your connection and celebrate their role as a tiny, magnificent monarch of the water.
So watch them flare their gills in the morning light. See their fins ripple like silk in the current. And when you whisper, “Ember, it’s feeding time,” and they swim to the surface with pride you’ll know you’ve chosen not just a name, but a tribute.
May your tank stay clean, your water pristine, and your betta live long, bold, and beautifully under your care.