Scarlet Badis - Pairs 1M & 1 F

• NZ Bred

• Guaranteed Female or Money Back (Females are the rarest, even globally!) – Be one of the very few to own these pairs!

The Scarlet Badis (Dario dario), also known as the Gem Badis or Rainbow Badis, is a stunning micro fish that is perfect for nano aquariums. Originating from India, this rare species boasts vibrant red and blue vertical stripes across its body. While naturally timid, the Scarlet Badis thrives in a heavily planted and well-decorated aquarium where it feels secure. Males display their most striking colors when competing for female attention, while females tend to have a more subdued yet still attractive coloration.

Feeding & Diet

The Scarlet Badis is a micropredator and requires a diet rich in meaty foods. Many individuals may not accept dry flakes or pellets at first, so offering live and frozen foods is essential. In the wild, they feed on small worms, crustaceans, insects, and larvae. In captivity, a staple diet of cyclops, glassworms, enriched Artemia, and Daphnia is ideal. While bloodworms and Tubifex worms can be given occasionally, they should be used sparingly to avoid health issues such as obesity.

Tank Setup & Care

To keep the Scarlet Badis comfortable, ensure the aquarium includes plenty of plants, rockwork, and driftwood, providing ample hiding spots. Since they are cave spawners, creating small cave-like structures within the decor will encourage natural breeding behaviors. Males will guard the eggs and newly hatched fry, but it is advisable to remove the adults afterward to prevent them from eating their offspring.

This species prefers a planted aquarium with gentle to moderate water flow and is generally peaceful when housed with other small, non-aggressive species. Though a micropredator, its small size makes it safe to keep with tank mates that are too large to be considered prey. It can cohabit with snails and larger shrimp, but it may prey on shrimp fry and juveniles. Due to its shy nature, avoid housing it with overly aggressive or fast-feeding fish that may outcompete it for food.

Why We Love the Scarlet Badis:

• Striking red and blue coloration

• Peaceful nature with most tank mates

• Tolerant of a wide temperature range

• Active in mid to lower aquarium levels

• Completely plant-safe

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 68° - 79° F (20° - 26° C)

• pH: 6.5 - 7.5

• KH: 2 - 15 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons for a group of 6 or more

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Live and frozen meaty foods (e.g., cyclops, Daphnia, Artemia). Bloodworms and Tubifex worms should be limited. Dry foods are often ignored but may be accepted over time.

• Social Behavior: Generally peaceful, forming loose schools. Males may be territorial with each other.

• Origin: India

• Adult Size: 0.5 - 0.8 inches (1.2 - 2 cm)

• Purchase Size: 0.5 - 0.8 inches (1.2 - 2 cm)

With its vivid colors and unique personality, the Scarlet Badis is a fantastic choice for aquarists looking to add a touch of elegance to their tank. Ensure a suitable environment, and this little gem will flourish in your aquarium!