Female Halfmoon Betta (Betta splendens) Care Guide:
The Female Halfmoon Betta is a stunning and slightly less aggressive variant of the popular Betta splendens, known for her flowing fins and vivid colors. She thrives in a warm, clean, and stable environment with gentle filtration and plenty of plants or decorations for cover. A single female can live comfortably in a 5-gallon tank, while small groups (sororities) require at least 20 gallons with careful monitoring for hierarchy and aggression. Ideal water conditions include temperatures between 78–82°F (25–28°C), pH 6.5–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Female Halfmoons are omnivorous, eating high-quality betta pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods like bloodworms and daphnia. With proper care and enrichment, they display curious and social behavior, making them both beautiful and engaging aquarium pets.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Betta splendens |
| Common Name | Female Halfmoon Betta |
| Origin | Thailand, Cambodia (selectively bred variety) |
| Size | Up to 2.5 inches (6 cm) |
| Tank Size | Minimum 5 gallons for one; 20+ gallons for sorority |
| Temperature | 78–82°F (25–28°C) |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Water Hardness | 5–15 dGH |
| Diet | Omnivorous – betta pellets, flakes, frozen/live foods |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive; social in well-managed groups |
| Tank Setup | Plants, hiding spots, gentle flow, warm water |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Compatibility | Peaceful tankmates; avoid fin-nippers and aggressive species |