The Dumbo (Big Ear) HMPK Male Betta (Betta splendens) is a striking short-finned plakat variety known for its oversized, flowing pectoral fins — often called “elephant ears.” These dramatic fins create a bold, graceful swimming motion that sets them apart from standard HMPK bettas. Combined with their muscular build and vibrant coloration, Dumbo HMPK males make exceptional centerpiece fish for nano and desktop aquariums.
Common Name: Dumbo (Big Ear) HMPK Male Betta
Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Originally developed through selective breeding in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam), enhancing both the halfmoon plakat form and the signature oversized pectoral fins.
2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters) per fish (larger recommended for stability)
pH Range: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardness: 3–15 dGH (soft to moderate)
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Territorial, confident, and interactive. Males are aggressive toward other male bettas and should be housed individually. They may flare at their reflection or nearby fish but typically ignore peaceful bottom dwellers.
Primarily mid-to-top dwellers but will explore the entire aquarium.
Carnivorous. Feed high-quality betta pellets as a staple diet, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Offer small portions 1–2 times daily and avoid overfeeding.
Use soft live or silk plants to prevent fin damage.
Provide resting areas such as betta logs, broad leaves, or driftwood.
Ensure easy access to the water surface — bettas breathe atmospheric oxygen using their labyrinth organ.
Avoid sharp or rough decorations that could tear fins.
Bubble-nest builders. Males construct a bubble nest at the surface and court females for spawning. A separate breeding tank (5–10 gallons) with warm water (~28°C/82°F), gentle filtration, and floating plants is recommended. Remove the female after spawning to prevent aggression.
Highly intelligent and responsive. Dumbo HMPK males often recognize their owners, follow movement outside the tank, and flare their large pectoral fins when excited or asserting dominance. Personalities range from calm and curious to bold and fiery.
Peaceful bottom dwellers such as corydoras or kuhli loaches
Small, calm schooling fish like rasboras
Avoid fin-nipping species, guppies, or other bettas.
Perform 20–25% weekly water changes
Use a reliable heater for stable warm temperatures
Choose a filter with gentle flow to prevent stress
Easy–Moderate. Hardy when kept in warm, stable conditions with proper tankmate selection.
The Dumbo (Big Ear) HMPK Male Betta (Betta splendens) is a striking short-finned plakat variety known for its oversized, flowing pectoral fins — often called “elephant ears.” These dramatic fins create a bold, graceful swimming motion that sets them apart from standard HMPK bettas. Combined with their muscular build and vibrant coloration, Dumbo HMPK males make exceptional centerpiece fish for nano and desktop aquariums.
Common Name: Dumbo (Big Ear) HMPK Male Betta
Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Originally developed through selective breeding in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam), enhancing both the halfmoon plakat form and the signature oversized pectoral fins.
2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters) per fish (larger recommended for stability)
pH Range: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardness: 3–15 dGH (soft to moderate)
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Territorial, confident, and interactive. Males are aggressive toward other male bettas and should be housed individually. They may flare at their reflection or nearby fish but typically ignore peaceful bottom dwellers.
Primarily mid-to-top dwellers but will explore the entire aquarium.
Carnivorous. Feed high-quality betta pellets as a staple diet, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Offer small portions 1–2 times daily and avoid overfeeding.
Use soft live or silk plants to prevent fin damage.
Provide resting areas such as betta logs, broad leaves, or driftwood.
Ensure easy access to the water surface — bettas breathe atmospheric oxygen using their labyrinth organ.
Avoid sharp or rough decorations that could tear fins.
Bubble-nest builders. Males construct a bubble nest at the surface and court females for spawning. A separate breeding tank (5–10 gallons) with warm water (~28°C/82°F), gentle filtration, and floating plants is recommended. Remove the female after spawning to prevent aggression.
Highly intelligent and responsive. Dumbo HMPK males often recognize their owners, follow movement outside the tank, and flare their large pectoral fins when excited or asserting dominance. Personalities range from calm and curious to bold and fiery.
Peaceful bottom dwellers such as corydoras or kuhli loaches
Small, calm schooling fish like rasboras
Avoid fin-nipping species, guppies, or other bettas.
Perform 20–25% weekly water changes
Use a reliable heater for stable warm temperatures
Choose a filter with gentle flow to prevent stress
Easy–Moderate. Hardy when kept in warm, stable conditions with proper tankmate selection.
