🐟 Female Betta Fish
Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Common Names: Female Betta, Lady Betta, Betta Girl
Origin: Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam (wild form); captive-bred worldwide
Size: ~2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm)
Lifespan: 2–4 years (up to 5 with excellent care)
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, curious, and intelligent
Tank Level: Top to mid-dweller
🌸 Description:
Female bettas are generally smaller and less flamboyant than males, but many varieties now display rich colors and short but attractive fins. While less aggressive than males, females still have personalities and can be territorial, especially toward each other. They can be kept solo, in peaceful community tanks, or in sororities (female groups) under careful conditions.
🏠 Tank Requirements:
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Tank Size:
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Water Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
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pH: 6.8–7.5
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Hardness: Soft to moderate (3–12 dGH)
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Filtration: Gentle flow (sponge or baffled filter)
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Aquascape: Heavily planted, with hiding spots (caves, decorations, floating plants)
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Lighting: Moderate; low light helps reduce stress
🍽️ Diet:
Female bettas are carnivorous and enjoy:
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High-quality betta pellets or micro pellets
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Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)
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Occasional treats like mosquito larvae
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily; avoid overfeeding.
👩👩👧👧 Sorority Care (Multiple Females):
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Must be done carefully—not all females get along
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Start with 4–6+ females introduced at the same time
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Tank should have plenty of space and lots of plants/hiding places
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Monitor for bullying; remove aggressive individuals
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Never mix males and females unless breeding (and under supervision)
🤝 Tank Mates:
Female bettas can live with other peaceful community fish if space allows:
Avoid:
📝 Notes:
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Regular water changes (25–50% weekly) are essential
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Females may display a vertical barring pattern when stressed or ready to breed
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Some females flare and show dominance just like males
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Bubble nests are rare but not impossible with females
