What size tank does a Scarlet Badis need?

Scarlet Badis needs a minimum of 5 gallons, with 10 gallons recommended. They are middle swimmers.

Is Scarlet Badis good for beginners?

Scarlet Badis is rated "intermediate" difficulty (3/5). Suitable for intermediate fishkeepers.

What fish are compatible with Scarlet Badis?

Scarlet Badis is peaceful. Compatible tank mates include other peaceful fish with similar water parameters (pH 6.5-7.5, temp 72-79°F). Give adequate territory space.

Scarlet Badis

Dario dario

Family: Badidae • Origin: South Asia

Scarlet Badis are among the most colorful nano fish — males are vivid red and blue. But they ONLY eat live/frozen food.

Min Tank

5 gal

Max Size

0.8"

Temperature

72-79°F

6.5-7.5

Lifespan

3 years

School Size

Solo OK

Swim Level

middle

Hardness

2-12 dGH

peacefulintermediatecarnivore

Is Scarlet Badis Right for Your Tank?

Scarlet Badis is a moderate-care fish rated "intermediate" (3/5). Suitable for hobbyists with some experience who can maintain stable water parameters. At just 5 gallons minimum, they work well in nano tanks and smaller setups.

With a peaceful temperament, Scarlet Badis makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. They are territorial — provide adequate hiding spots and maintain enough space to reduce aggression. Expected lifespan: 3 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Scarlet Badis

✗

Putting them in a tank under 5 gallons

While 5 gallons is the minimum, nano tanks require more frequent water changes and leave less room for error. A slightly larger tank (10 gal) is much more forgiving.

✗

Housing with peaceful nano fish

Scarlet Badis is peaceful and territorial — small, peaceful species like neon tetras, endlers, or celestial pearl danios will be stressed, bullied, or eaten. Choose tank mates that can hold their own.

✗

Skipping the quarantine period

Even healthy-looking fish can carry parasites or disease. Quarantine new Scarlet Badis for 2–4 weeks in a separate tank before adding to your main aquarium.

Care Tips

• Males only sold — females are drab and rare
• ONLY eats live/frozen food
• Very shy — needs heavily planted tank
• Will starve if kept with fast fish
• One of the most colorful nano species

Feeding: Live/frozen foods ONLY: daphnia, baby brine shrimp, micro worms. Will NOT eat flakes or pellets.

Compatibility Notes: Extremely shy and slow. Will be outcompeted for food by any fast fish. Best in species-only nano or with very small peaceful fish.