Halfmoon Betta

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Variety created in captivity through international artificial selection (between the United States and France in the 1990s). Does not exist in nature. Descended from the Betta splendens of the Southeast Asian swamps.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Halfmoon Betta. The maximum expression of fin hypertrophy. The name derives from the caudal fin which, when fully extended (flaring), forms a perfect 180-degree semicircle with straight edges.

Social Behavior: Highly aggressive towards other males. However, swimming is so compromised by the weight of the 180-degree tail that it is clumsy and very slow, becoming an easy victim of much smaller but fast fish.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Exists in every color mutation (Mustard Gas, Super Red, Copper, etc.). The male boasts the imposing 180-degree caudal fin. Females (Halfmoon Plakat or HMPK females) have short fins but also show the characteristic D-shaped opening of the caudal.

Aquarium Setup: 20-30 liters (5-8 gallons) tank dedicated to the single specimen. Mandatory ZERO water flow and no sharp or rough decor (like lava rocks). Needs broad-leaved plants (Anubias) to be able to lean near the surface and breathe effortlessly.

Diet and Feeding: Insectivorous carnivore. Because it moves with difficulty, food must float for a long time. Feed it sparingly with dry pellets alternated with frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp to prevent lethal intestinal occlusion.

Water Quality: The water must be very warm (27°C / 81°F) and pristine. The immense halfmoon fins are prime targets for bacteria. Lack of hygiene will invariably cause fin rot in a few days.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Strictly isolated keeping. Its slowness and its immense "veil" fins make it the perfect target for the bites of Barbs, Tetras and even small Guppies. Cohabits well only with Nerite snails.

Aquarium Reproduction: Bubble nester. The reproduction of Halfmoons is complex because the males tire quickly during the embrace ritual and often fail to wrap around the female due to the tail being too stiff and cumbersome.

Risks and Diseases: Tail Biting (Self-mutilation). Frustrated by the weight of their own tail that prevents them from swimming, many Halfmoons end up eating their own caudal fin to lighten themselves, causing tremendous infections.