Betta Half Moon Male

Half Moon Betta Fish

 

Common Name

Half Moon Betta, Siamese Fighting Fish

 

Scientific Name

Betta splendens

 

Origin

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)

 

Appearance & Fin Type

Half Moon Bettas are prized for their dramatic tail fin, which spreads to a full 180-degree “half moon” shape when fully flared. They come in a wide range of colors including red, blue, white, black, marble, koi, and multicolor patterns.

 

Temperament

Semi-aggressive to aggressive.
Male Half Moon Bettas must be housed alone or with carefully selected, peaceful tank mates. Females are generally less aggressive but still territorial.

 

Tank Size

Minimum 5 gallons recommended.
Larger tanks (10+ gallons) provide better stability and enrichment.

 

Tank Setup

• Heated aquarium (Bettas are tropical fish)

• Gentle filtration with low flow

• Plenty of hiding spots using plants, caves, or decor

• Smooth surfaces to prevent fin damage

• Live or silk plants are preferred over sharp artificial décor.

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Stable, clean water is critical to prevent fin rot and stress.

 

Filtration & Flow

Low flow only.
Strong currents can exhaust Half Moon Bettas due to their large fins.

 

Diet

Carnivorous.

 

Feeding

• High-quality Betta pellets or granules

• Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily
  Avoid overfeeding, as Bettas are prone to bloating.

Compatibility

• Best kept alone

• Can be housed with peaceful, non-fin-nipping species (snails, shrimp, small rasboras) in larger tanks

• Never house two male Bettas together

Health & Care Notes

• Susceptible to fin rot, swim bladder issues, and stress-related illness

• Maintain warm, stable temperatures and excellent water quality

• Regular water changes (25–30% weekly) are recommended

 

Care Level

Easy to Moderate

Suitable for beginners when housed correctly and provided proper heat and filtration.

 

Signs of Good Health

• Bright coloration

• Active swimming and curiosity

• Strong feeding response

• Full fin extension

 

Signs of Stress or Illness

• Clamped fins

• Lethargy

• Loss of color

• Torn or deteriorating fins

 

Fun Fact 🐟

Half Moon Bettas were selectively bred to achieve their iconic 180-degree tail spread, making them one of the most visually striking Betta varieties—but their large fins also mean they tire more easily than short-finned Bettas.