My new theory

[Sorrell]

So I remember that a while back someone was asking why female bettas have shorter fins then males...well by golly, I think I've got it! If you've ever watched spawning, when the male picks at the female and she darts off, he'll chase her, but he is much slower than her. I think the short fins are a defense mechanism to protect her during the spawning. There ya have it, I'm brilliant

edit~ please ignore all the short fin males in my signature while reading this theory, Thank you

 

[shrks1fan]

No that's not it, it's because males have such a low self esteem they NEED to look prettier or they would just go off and hide in the corner of the lake mumbling to themselves about how much prettier all the females are. The females of course can handle it just fine and realize how important they are even if they aren't as pretty.

 

[Sorrell]

How did I not think of that?!

 

[my_fallen_angel]

edit~ please ignore all the short fin males in my signature while reading this theory, Thank you

hehehehehe

it could have worked

 

[thellama]

i think i know why..

its like humans..

males = better looking than females

(no im not gay)

ahahahhaah

 

[3lfangor]

Males have longer fins, better color to compete with other males over the female. These contests with looks avoid physical confrontation which might result in death. And yes, the shorter fins are for speed.