Black Halfmoon Betta (Betta splendens) The Black Halfmoon Betta, Betta splendens, is a captive-bred ornamental Siamese Fighting Fish selected for deep black colouration and large rounded halfmoon finnage. This dramatic variety makes a striking feature fish for planted display aquariums, especially against green plants and soft lighting. Like all male Bettas, it is territorial and should usually be kept as a single specimen in a mature heated aquarium with gentle filtration, calm surroundings and clear access to the surface. Common Name:Black Halfmoon Betta, Black HM Betta, Black Betta, Halfmoon Betta, Siamese Fighting Fish. Scientific Name (Latin):Betta splendensCaptive-bred ornamental Halfmoon colour form. Maximum Size:Usually around 6–7 cm. Water Type:Freshwater Origin / Natural Habitat:The Black Halfmoon form is captive-bred and does not occur as a wild population. Wild Betta splendens are native to Southeast Asia, where they occur in warm, shallow, slow-moving or still waters such as floodplains, canals, rice paddies, marshes, ditches, ponds and densely vegetated margins. They are labyrinth fish, meaning they regularly breathe atmospheric air from the surface. Water Parameters:Temperature: 24–28°CpH Range: 6.0–8.0Hardness or Salinity: Soft to moderately hard freshwater; warm, stable water is more important than chasing exact values. Temperament:Semi-aggressive and territorial. Male Bettas must not be kept together, and Halfmoon males are usually best kept singly. Their long fins can make them vulnerable to nipping, so tank mates must be chosen carefully. Some individuals may tolerate peaceful companions in a larger aquarium, but compatibility depends heavily on the individual fish. Diet:Carnivorous micro-predator. Offer high-quality Betta pellets, small floating granules, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brineshrimp, cyclops, mosquito larvae and occasional live foods. Feed small portions and avoid overfeeding, as Bettas can become bloated if given too much rich food. Minimum Tank Size:A minimum of 25 litres is recommended for a single Betta, with 40 litres or more preferred. A heated, filtered aquarium is strongly recommended rather than an unheated bowl or vase. Behaviour & Activity:A surface-orientated fish that patrols its territory, investigates plants and decor, and regularly visits the surface to breathe air. Males may flare their gill covers and spread their fins when displaying. Halfmoon Bettas are often less agile than short-finned Plakat types, so they appreciate gentle flow, resting spots near the surface and smooth decor that will not tear their fins. Aquarium Category:Semi-AggressiveBest kept as a single feature fish. Possible tank mates in larger aquariums may include peaceful snails, larger Amano shrimp with caution, small calm rasboras or Corydoras-type catfish, but compatibility depends heavily on the individual Betta. Avoid other male Bettas, female Bettas unless breeding under controlled conditions, guppies, gouramis, fin-nipping fish, brightly coloured rivals, aggressive fish and tiny shrimp. Special Requirements or Care Notes:Provide a heater, gentle filtration, floating plants, broad-leaved plants, shaded areas and easy access to the water surface. Avoid strong current, cold rooms, sharp decor, rough rocks and plastic plants that may catch the long fins. A secure lid is important, as Bettas can jump, and the air above the water should remain warm and humid. Black colour intensity can vary with age, lighting, stress level, diet and individual genetics. Suitable for:Beginner to intermediate fishkeepers Availability:Occasional in trade / Captive-bred ornamental strain or individual selected Betta All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.
