Red Scarlet Badis

Badis – Care Guide & Aquarium Companions

Badis are small, colourful and fascinating freshwater fish known for their slow, deliberate movement, interesting hunting behaviour and attractive colour patterns. They are especially popular in planted and nano aquariums.

Popular varieties include Scarlet Badis, Badis badis, Black Tiger Badis and other closely related species.

Aquarium Care

Tank Size:
A minimum of around 30–50 litres is suitable for many smaller Badis species. Larger setups are recommended if keeping multiple males or a mixed group.

Water Temperature:
Generally 22°C – 27°C, depending on the species.

pH Range:
Approximately 6.0 – 7.5.

Aquarium Setup

Badis prefer heavily planted aquariums with plenty of cover and hiding spaces.

A suitable setup should include:

• Live plants

• Moss

• Driftwood

• Rocks

• Small caves

• Leaf litter

• Gentle filtration

• Calm water movement

• Shaded areas

Providing multiple territories is especially important when keeping more than one male.

Feeding

Badis are mainly micro-predators and often prefer live or frozen foods over dry foods.

Suitable foods include:

• Baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Bloodworms

• Mosquito larvae

• Micro worms

• Small live foods

• Small frozen foods

Some Badis may take high-quality micro pellets, but many individuals can be reluctant to accept dry food.

A varied diet helps maintain strong colour and healthy body condition.

Behaviour & Temperament

Badis are generally peaceful toward unrelated fish but can be territorial with their own species.

Males may defend small territories, especially during breeding.

Providing dense plants, caves and visual barriers helps reduce aggression.

They are slower feeders than many community fish, so they should not be housed with extremely fast or aggressive feeders that may prevent them from getting enough food.

Suitable Tank Companions

Badis can usually be kept with small, peaceful species such as:

Small Rasboras • Small Tetras • Pygmy Corydoras • Small Loaches • Otocinclus • Nerite Snails and other peaceful nano fish

Shrimp compatibility should be considered carefully, as baby shrimp may be hunted and eaten.

Avoid large, aggressive or very active fish.

Breeding

Many Badis are cave or sheltered-area spawners.

During breeding, males may become more colourful and territorial while guarding a chosen area.

Dense plants, small caves and calm surroundings can encourage breeding behaviour.

Important Note

Badis are generally better suited to aquarists who can provide regular live or frozen foods.

They can also be shy when first introduced and may spend time hiding until they become comfortable.

Because different Badis species vary in size and temperament, always check the exact species before selecting aquarium size and tank companions.

With a peaceful environment, plenty of hiding spaces and suitable live foods, Badis can be beautiful and rewarding additions to planted freshwater aquariums.