Halfmoon Betta

The halfmoon Betta is a real treat for the eyes. What splendid colors, what foliage and what variety! There is hardly anyone who would not find this species a truly mesmerizing sight to behold. The reason why they have been called halfmoon is because their tails have a 180 degree curvature to them. It looks like the tutu skirt of a ballet dancer - fluffy, puffed up and extremely gorgeous.

The fish thrives in fresh water and has come to be as a result of a lot of experimentation in breeding with the different Bettas. It required years and years of breeding and choosing only the best fish to finally get the exact statistics of the halfmoon Betta that we know of today. The first Betta was a fish named R39 and it is he who has been responsible for the continuing race of this fish.

Fish Care

The halfmoon Betta is also known as Siamese fighting fish and Betta Splendens. It is one of the most popular aquarium fish that you can have. Taking care of the Betta fish is not very difficult. Here are a few steps to help you out.

Choose a Variety
There are several varieties and colors of the Betta fish. These come in every conceivable color - red, black, copper, steel blue, green, turquoise, chocolate etc. A white halfmoon Betta fish is one of the most popular fish to buy because it looks ethereal in a tank.

These fish can be kept along with other fish type, but care needs to be taken that they are not kept with any species of aggressive fish (like Danios, Tetras) who might attack. If you are planning to keep a lot of these fish, then make sure that you only keep one male in the tank. Two males is a big no no. However, several female halfmoon Betta fish can be kept together as they develop no hostility amongst themselves.

Tank Basics
The tank has to measure at least a gallon in size, and the entire water contents need to be changed every 3-4 days. These fish require a warm temperature to survive. In that manner it is the perfect example of a tropical fish. The temperature should be ideally maintained between 70-75 degrees and can be even raised to 80 degrees. Anything below that and the fish are 'adjusting', not 'liking' their habitat.

Make sure that the pH level of the tank is slightly acidic to neutral (6.5) and the chlorine has been completely removed. Do not add salt to the tank at any cost. This will kill your fish. Decorate the fish tank with gravel, sand and plants, but make sure these aren't plastic as they will harm the male Betta. Layer the aquarium so that ample places are provided for the female to hide in.

Food
These fish are extremely choosy about their eating habits. Give them a rich diet of pellets, bloodworms, shrimp etc. but no fish flakes. Make sure that you do not overfeed them or there is a great risk of death.

Disease
There are several Betta fish diseases that can plague the fish. Like if there are any traces of soap left in the tank while cleaning, which can prove fatal. So avoid cleaning with a soap at any cost! A sick Betta can be treated with antibiotics or anti fungal medication.

There are several varieties of halfmoon Betta fish for sale. Choose one that is bright and lively. Then put it in a tank that is 80% filled with water. Overtime, the fish will learn to recognize the owners and even swim towards them when they approach the tank. They'll also play games by jumping up in the air (that's why fill the tank with 80% water). It's not really a hassle to care for Betta fish. They don't require a great deal of time or additional care. Just give them the basics and you'll have a carnival in your tank!