The dumbo betta is a native of Thailand and was selectively bred to produce short-tailed bettas with bigger pectoral fin bettas. Through careful breeding, bettas with huge pectoral fins have been produced in multiple generations. These fish are now referred to as "Elephant Ear Betta" in Thai as "ปลากัดหูช้าง". It's also crucial to remember that early dumbo bettas lacked the vibrant color of these early elephant ear bettas. To improve the color intensity and beauty of elephant ear betta, betta breeders have, overtime, bred them with species that have bright colors.