Badis Badis

The Badis Badis

Badis

Native Location: India

Climate: Tropical

Maximum Size: 6cm

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Carnivore

Breeding: Easy

Temperature Range: 15-25℃ (59-77℉)

Preferred pH Range: 6.0-7.5

Minimum Aquarium Size 270L (150cmX40cmX40cm)

Potential Tankmates: Harlequin Rasboras, Neon Tetra, Kuhli Loach

Care Level: Easy

The natural habitat of the Badis badis, commonly known as the blue perch, is found in slow-moving streams and rivers in South Asia, particularly in India and Bangladesh. These waters are typically clear to slightly turbid and are rich in vegetation. The habitat usually consists of a mixture of sand and fine gravel, often accompanied by leaf litter, which provides additional cover and foraging grounds.

Creating the perfect aquarium for Badis badis is a task that requires attention to detail. Start with a substrate of fine sand or gravel to mimic their natural environment. Add water-worn rocks, pebbles, and driftwood to provide ample hiding spots and territories. Including some leaf litter can also enhance the habitat's authenticity. For aquatic plants, consider hardy species such as Java fern (Microsorum pteropus) and Anubias and floating plants like Indian fern (Ceratopteris thalictroides) to offer shaded areas. These plants can be attached to the decor or left to float, creating a natural look and feel. Remember, with the right elements, you can feel confident in your ability to recreate a suitable habitat for these fascinating creatures.

When selecting tank mates for Badis badis, it's crucial to choose peaceful companions. This ensures a harmonious environment and prevents competition for food. Suitable tank mates include small schooling fish like Harlequin rasboras and Neon tetras, which occupy the upper levels of the tank, and bottom-dwellers like Kuhli loaches. Maintain moderate lighting to support plant growth without causing stress, and ensure a gentle water flow to replicate their native slow-moving streams.

In their natural habitat, Badis badis are micropredators that feed on small aquatic crustaceans, worms, insect larvae, and other zooplankton​​. To recreate this diet in the home aquarium, provide a variety of live or frozen foods. Suitable options include Artemia (brine shrimp), Daphnia, and bloodworms. It is important to offer these foods regularly to ensure they receive the nutrition needed to maintain their vibrant colours and health. Avoid relying on dried foods, as Badis badis often refuse them and they do not provide the same nutritional value. Incorporating these foods into their diet will help mimic their natural feeding habits and support their well-being​.

As a fish keeper, your role in breeding Badis badis in the home aquarium is crucial. It requires setting up a well-structured environment with plenty of hiding places and suitable spawning sites. Include materials like driftwood, rocks, and half coconut shells to create cave-like structures that the fish can use for breeding. The species forms temporary pair bonds and prefers to spawn in secluded areas. When ready to breed, males become territorial and display intensified colours to attract females. After spawning, the male guards the eggs, which hatch in 2-3 days. The fry become free-swimming about a week later. To maximise fry survival, it's often best to remove other tank mates or transfer the fry to a separate rearing tank once they are free-swimming. Feeding the fry infusoria or microworms initially, and then progressing to Artemia nauplii, will support their growth.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or to our Facebook page, and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish. 

Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels) via a dated image. Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or "disasters", i.e. a heater overheating. To prevent such situations, we recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium. 

 Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact us at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fish keeping! 

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, we treat any health issues that may occur during transport and ensure each fish is eating well and looking healthy. All fish are treated with Flubendazole before finally going on sale.