What, really, is desireable in a betta?

[Ana6]

I've been reading a lot, with the idea that one day, when I'm ready, I might breed my betta. I have a lovely copper red devil.

As a novice, I am learning about what types of characteristics are considered "ideal" and which are considered "flaws."

I am struggling with this because I find many of the flaws (e.g. red wash, iridecense) are actually quite pleasing, visually.

Are the "ideal" betta standards just elitism gone too far?

[1fish2fish]

Standards are not elitism. They are an agreed upon set of guidelines voted on by the IBC. They change as the hobby changes and what people see as "desirable" changes.

Some flaws in one fish may be liked in the next. That is why there are different standards for different types of bettas.

When you ask what is desirable you will find that there are a lot of differing opinions. People on this forum choose fish I cringe at just as others can't understand how I find a "plain" blue betta so beautiful.

[indjo]

Basically 1f2f has it covered. But here's a link for desired form

http://bettysplendens.com/articles/p...articleid=4074

Color and pattern are personal preference. But the harder to get them breed true, the more desired they tend to be. Eg. the paper white opaque - all white including pectoral and beard .... some even expect part of the eyes to be white.