molliemom3

I have already decided on getting a betta. Barberella told me on another thread that the blue ones are more calmer than the red.

Are the girls more calmer than the boys? What would be a good choice for a first timer and do they sell mostly boys in the pet stores? Thanks for your help.

Decisions Decisions

Lucy

I have a girl and I just adore her.

But keep 1 thing in mind, you don't choose the betta
The betta chooses you. lol

Good luck.

Edit: I'm sorry, I know you didn't ask about this, but I see you don't know about the nitrogen cycle, please read this:
http://www.fishlore.com/NitrogenCycle.htm

Here's a link to an excellent betta care guide.
Welcome and Betta Care Guide - Please Read First!!!

luna

(without having read a word of the topic): GIRL!

(having read the topic): I don't know that blue fish or girls are calmer than the alternatives, but they have smaller fins, which does reduce some of the quirks of betta care. I have a girl and I like having a girl. Boys are pretty, but, as with all prettyboys, they're high maintenance. Lucy's right, though, the betta chooses you (I know mine did).

fishluver101

as far as i know color has nothing to do with aggression. girls are definetely more calm then boys. yes they do sell girls in some petstores (idk about petsmart but i know petco sells girls) and specialty petstores will too. i would get a girl cuz they are more compatable with more fish and if u really like them u can get a second.

Lucy

I have to respectfully disagree. It really depends on the bettas personality as to whether they're calm or not, not their gender.
I would strongly advise not keeping a betta with other fish. While some bettas may accept tank mates, I've read too many threads where someone got hurt or killed.

molliemom3

Thanks everyone. I think the decision is made it will be a girl. Now for the waiting of the cycle. Less maintenance and smaller fins I could live with that.

jdhef

As far as availability, both the PetSmart and Petco in my area have female Betta's, but the males seem to outnumber the females 5 to 1. So you may need to shop around until one finds you.

molliemom3

ok thanks jdhef

Barbrella

My girls were anything but calm! They were little maniacs, but I still prefer them over males.

Lonely Angel

Girls are very feisty - likely because they don't have to carry around those heavy fins. I love my girl Kita with her spunky attitude and would definitely get another female if the opportunity arose.

The petco near me sells females, but the local owned shop and walmart () don't. You should be able to find females, but you will have no choice in their selection - that's all up to the betta to choose you!

Devon

I was always a male betta keeper until I met Consuela; she chose me with her friendly face and frank expression that stated she knew I had no choice but to rescue her from that Deathco cup... she swam right up as comfy as could be and plopped herself into 5 significant gallons of my life.
Ever since then, she has been the most communicative creature in my house, and though she never makes a sound, she could certainly be described as the "loud one". I've also really enjoyed watching her change from a pale pink to deep magenta, purple and blue in her stay with me... how wonderful to watch a pale fish colour up and find love (oh, she will never forget her Esteban!) and grow healthy... not to say that boys aren't wonderful to keep, but girls are an experience of their own, and certainly an experience that requires some extra attention to appreciate... enjoy!!

shellbell4ever

I have both Males and Females and it really depends on their personality,I had on female that was a terror (LOL)But I can't say I prefer one over another,But the males have much longer fins and I think are more susceptible to finnage problems...But with good care that shouldn't be a problem who ever decides to choose you to be their Betta Mom
Best of luck with what ever you get!!

COBettaCouple

I've found that our males and females both have the whole range of personalities. From sweet and easy-going to fiesty. Overall, the femals seem to be more active and curious. Also, more demanding.. ours will pout if they feel jealous (Angel pouts if she sees us holding Stacy's new guinea pigs even).

They really are pretty even and I'd recommend a female for a first timer because they have less fin problems.