Badis
Introduction
The Badis, often called the Scarlet Badis (Badis badis or Dario dario, with the latter being the most popular in aquariums), is a small, colorful freshwater fish prized for its vibrant hues and fascinating behaviors. This species is especially appealing to aquarists who enjoy observing naturalistic behaviors and subtle beauty in their tanks. While not as commonly seen as tetras or guppies, the Scarlet Badis has gained popularity thanks to its manageable size, peaceful nature, and suitability for nano aquariums. However, their care is best suited to aquarists with some experience, as they have specific dietary and environmental needs that require attention.
Care and Environment
Scarlet Badis thrive in well-maintained aquariums that mimic their natural habitat. For a single fish or pair, the minimum tank size is 20 litres, but a larger aquarium (at least 40–60 litres) is recommended for groups or optimal conditions. These fish prefer stable, soft, and slightly acidic to neutral water, with temperatures ranging from 22–28°C. Good filtration is important, but flow should be gentle, as Badis are not strong swimmers and can be stressed by strong currents.
What are the ideal water parameters for Scarlet Badis?
Maintain a temperature between 22–28°C, pH of 6.5–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water (up to 12 dGH). Regular water changes and stable conditions are crucial, as Badis can be sensitive to sudden shifts in water chemistry.
What should I feed my Scarlet Badis?
Scarlet Badis are micropredators and often refuse dry foods. They thrive on a varied diet of live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and microworms. Some may accept high-quality frozen foods, but flakes and pellets are rarely accepted.
How should I decorate a tank for Badis?
Provide plenty of hiding spots using plants, driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal, and dense planting helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior. Low to moderate lighting is preferred, as bright light can make them shy.
Badis are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially males during breeding. It's best to keep one male per tank or ensure plenty of visual barriers if keeping multiple males. They do not require fast-flowing water, and a sponge filter is often sufficient. Regular maintenance and careful monitoring are important, as they can be sensitive to poor water quality and sudden changes.
Origin and Habitat
Scarlet Badis are native to South Asia, particularly found in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. In the wild, they inhabit slow-moving streams, tributaries, and floodplains, often in areas with dense vegetation and leaf litter. These habitats typically have soft, slightly acidic water and a sandy or muddy substrate. Seasonal changes can affect water levels and temperature, but Badis are most often found in shallow, shaded waters with plenty of cover.
What type of environments do Scarlet Badis prefer in the wild?
They thrive in slow-moving, well-vegetated waters with soft substrates and plenty of natural hiding places.
Are Scarlet Badis found in fast-flowing rivers?
No, they are adapted to calmer waters and are rarely found in fast-flowing environments.
Temperament and Compatibility
Scarlet Badis are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially males. They do not shoal but may tolerate each other if enough space and hiding spots are provided. Males may display aggression towards each other, so it's best to keep one male per tank or provide a heavily planted environment to break up sight lines.
What tank mates are suitable for Scarlet Badis?
Ideal tank mates are small, peaceful species such as micro rasboras, small tetras, or shrimp. Avoid larger, boisterous, or aggressive fish, as Badis can be shy and easily outcompeted for food.
Can Scarlet Badis be kept with other Badis species?
Yes, but only if the tank is large and well-structured to reduce territorial disputes, especially among males.
How do Scarlet Badis behave in a community tank?
They tend to be shy and may hide if tank mates are too active or aggressive. Providing plenty of cover helps them feel secure.
Interesting Facts
Scarlet Badis were introduced to the aquarium hobby in the early 2000s and quickly became favorites for nano tanks due to their size and striking coloration. Males display vivid red and blue stripes, while females are more subdued in color. They are known for their fascinating courtship displays, with males flaring their fins and showing off their colors to attract females. Unlike many small fish, Scarlet Badis are micropredators and require live or frozen foods for optimal health. Breeding them in captivity is possible, but fry are tiny and require infusoria or other microscopic foods to survive.
Do Scarlet Badis change color?
Yes, males become more colorful when displaying or during breeding, while stress or poor conditions can make them pale.
Are Scarlet Badis easy to breed?
They can breed in home aquariums, but raising the fry is challenging due to their tiny size and specific food needs.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources: