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The betta, also known as Betta splendens, is a freshwater fish in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. It belongs to the genus Betta, which includes 73 species. However, it is the only one commonly called "betta" due to its popularity as a pet. Bettas are among the most sought-after aquarium fish worldwide because of their distinct and vibrant appearance, as well as their low-maintenance requirements.

Siamese fighting fish are indigenous to Thailand's central plain, where they have first domesticated over 1,000 years ago. They were initially bred for their aggressive temperament and used for gambling matches similar to cockfighting. Bettas were introduced outside Thailand by King Rama III, who supposedly gave some to Theodore Cantor, a Danish physician, zoologist, and botanist. They first became popular as ornamental fish in the West during the late 19th century. B. splendens has a long history of selective breeding, resulting in a wide range of colors and fin shapes, earning it the nickname "designer fish of the aquatic world."

Bettas are famous for being territorial, especially males who will attack each other if housed in the same tank without an escape route. This typically leads to the death of one or both fish. Female bettas can also become territorial towards each other in confined spaces. Due to their unique labyrinth organ, a feature exclusive to the suborder Anabantid that permits the intake of surface air, they can withstand low oxygen levels and poor water quality.

In addition to being globally popular, the Siamese fighting fish is Thailand's national aquatic animal, and the country remains the primary breeder and exporter of bettas for the worldwide aquarium trade. Despite their popularity as pets, B. splendens is classified as "vulnerable" by the IUCN due to increasing pollution and habitat loss.