What is the scientific name of the Siamese fighting fish kept in home aquariums?

The scientific name of the Siamese fighting fish is Betta splendens.

Native populations occur in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, where the fish inhabits shallow, slow-moving waters such as rice paddies, marshes, and small ponds. Selective breeding has produced the elaborate fins and vivid colors common in aquarium strains.

Male Siamese fighting fish are strongly territorial and may attack other males. This behavior explains the common name and why adult males are generally kept separately. The species can breathe atmospheric air using a labyrinth organ, an adaptation that helps it survive in warm, oxygen-poor water.

Betta splendens is sometimes confused with other bettas, including wild species with similar body shapes. “Betta” is the genus, whereas Betta splendens identifies the particular aquarium species.