Female Betta

Female Betta splendens lack the extravagant finnage and intense colouration of males but are nonetheless attractive fish with a variety of colour forms available. Multiple females can be kept together in 'sorority' tanks with ample space and planting to reduce aggression. They are hardier and more community-compatible than male bettas.

Water: temp 24–30°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard. Tank: minimum 40L for a sorority of 4–6; heavily planted with hiding spots throughout. Feeding: carnivore — quality betta pellets, live and frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp. Behaviour: semi-aggressive within sorority; hierarchies form but injury is rare in a well-planted tank. Compatibility: peaceful with most community fish; avoid males, fin-nippers, and nippy species.