Double Tail Halfmoon

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Betta splendens
• Common Names: Double Tail Halfmoon Betta, Double Tail Betta, Halfmoon Betta
• Family: Osphronemidae
• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, especially Thailand and Cambodia.

Physical Description

• Coloration: Double Tail Halfmoon Bettas come in a wide range of colors, including red, blue, green, purple, and multi-color variations. They can also exhibit different patterns, such as solid, bi-color, and marbled.
• Body Shape: They have a long, slender body that is laterally compressed, typical of Betta species.
• Fins:
  • Double Tail: The most distinctive feature of this variety is its double tail, which is split into two lobes instead of one. This gives them a fuller appearance and a dramatic look.
  • Halfmoon Shape: When the tail is fully extended, it forms a semi-circular shape, which is characteristic of the Halfmoon variety. The tail can span 180 degrees or more, adding to its beauty.
• Size: They typically grow to about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in length.

Behavior

• Temperament: Like other Betta varieties, Double Tail Halfmoon Bettas can be territorial and aggressive, particularly towards other males. They are best kept alone or with compatible, non-aggressive species.
• Social Structure: While they may show aggression towards other males, they can coexist with certain peaceful tank mates in spacious environments.
• Activity Level: These fish are generally active and display engaging behaviors, such as flaring their fins and exploring their surroundings.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: In the wild, Betta fish inhabit shallow waters, rice paddies, and floodplains with abundant vegetation for shelter and breeding.
• Aquarium Setup: A well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots using plants, driftwood, or decorations is ideal. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended, with a gentle filter to avoid strong currents, as Bettas prefer calm waters.

Diet

• Feeding: Double Tail Halfmoon Bettas are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet. They accept high-quality Betta pellets, flakes, freeze-dried foods, and occasional live or frozen foods (such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia).
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day, providing only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Double Tail Halfmoon Bettas are bubble-nesters, meaning the male constructs a bubble nest at the water's surface where he will care for the eggs after spawning.
• Nesting: To breed successfully, provide a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants where the female can hide. The male will display elaborate courtship behaviors to attract the female.
• Fry Care: After the eggs hatch (usually within 24 to 48 hours), the male will care for the fry until they are free-swimming. After that, he should be removed to prevent aggression.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 5 gallons is recommended for a single Double Tail Halfmoon Betta.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: 5 to 15 dGH
• Filtration: Use a gentle filter to maintain water quality. Regular water changes (about 25% weekly) are essential to keep the water clean and healthy.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Double Tail Halfmoon Bettas can be kept with peaceful community fish such as certain tetras, rasboras, and snails. Avoid keeping them with other male Bettas, aggressive species, or fish with long fins that may provoke aggression.
• Behavior with Others: Monitor the tank closely for signs of aggression, especially when introducing new tank mates.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Double Tail Halfmoon Bettas can live for about 3 to 5 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The unique combination of the double tail and halfmoon features makes these Bettas highly sought after by aquarists for their beauty and striking appearance.
• Bettas have a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe air from the surface, making them adaptable to various aquatic environments.