Can Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) Live Together?
Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) are not recommended as tank mates due to no temperature overlap. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish)?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
Shared setup supplies
We may earn from qualifying purchases
Behaviour & Temperament
Asian Arowana is a semi-aggressive species (8/10), while Badis (Chameleon Fish) is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Asian Arowana may occasionally assert dominance over Badis (Chameleon Fish).
In terms of spatial distribution, Asian Arowana prefers the Top (Surface) zone, whereas Badis (Chameleon Fish) occupies the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
Worth noting: Asian Arowana is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
There is no temperature overlap between Asian Arowana (26–30°C) and Badis (Chameleon Fish) (15–25°C). This fundamental mismatch makes long-term cohabitation impractical.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 3–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
Water care products
We may earn from qualifying purchases
Tank Setup
To house Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1000 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.
Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.
Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Plants - Densely covered, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Feeding products to consider
We may earn from qualifying purchases
.webp?2026-04-25T14%3A35%3A38.022Z)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as non-overlapping temperature ranges — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) need?
A minimum of 1000 litres (tank length at least 240 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) together?
Unfortunately, there is no temperature range that satisfies both species. Asian Arowana requires 26–30°C, while Badis (Chameleon Fish) needs 15–25°C.
Are Asian Arowana or Badis (Chameleon Fish) aggressive?
Asian Arowana is semi-aggressive (8/10) and Badis (Chameleon Fish) is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Asian Arowana and Badis (Chameleon Fish) need?
Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
How do I manage Asian Arowana's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Asian Arowana space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
Related Comparisons
Asian Arowana & Australian Pearl Arowana
·
Asian Arowana & Silver Arowana
·
Asian Arowana & African Lungfish
·
Asian Arowana & Banded Archerfish (Brackish)
·
Asian Arowana & Black Ghost Knifefish
·
Asian Arowana & Clown Knifefish
·
Badis (Chameleon Fish) & Scarlet Badis
·
Badis (Chameleon Fish) & Bluegill Sunfish
·
Badis (Chameleon Fish) & African Clawed Frog
·
Badis (Chameleon Fish) & Banded Chromide
·
Badis (Chameleon Fish) & African Dwarf Frog
·
Badis (Chameleon Fish) & Amazon Leaf Fish
·