One of the smallest known aquarium fish, resembling a tiny jewel. Males display brilliant vertical red and iridescent blue stripes. While beautiful, they are known for being extremely picky eaters, often refusing dry foods and requiring live or frozen micro-foods (Daphnia, Baby Brine Shrimp). Males act like tiny Cichlids and will stake out territories.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male (Standard)
The form almost exclusively found in stores. Brilliant red and blue stripes. Highly territorial toward other males. Requires complex hiding spots to coexist with other males.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Red, Show Male
Female
Rarely seen in the trade. Smaller, plain silver/grey, and lacks the vibrant vertical stripes. Essential for breeding. Can be kept in groups or harems with a male.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesScarlet Badis Care Guide Summary
The Scarlet Badis, scientifically known as Dario dario, belongs to the Other family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 2 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Scarlet Badis requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 20 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 18°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8.5 and a general hardness of 4–20 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Scarlet Badis is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male (Standard) and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Scarlet Badis Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Scarlet Badis, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, light plant coverage for partial shade, and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Scarlet Badis Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Scarlet Badis is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Scarlet Badis.
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
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Scarlet Badis Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Scarlet Badis will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups and will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed. Find quality Scarlet Badis fish food for this species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scarlet Badis
How big does Scarlet Badis get?
Scarlet Badis (Dario dario) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 2 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Scarlet Badis need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 20 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm are recommended for Scarlet Badis. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Scarlet Badis need?
Scarlet Badis thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 18–26°C, a pH between 6.5 and 8.5, and a general hardness of 4–20 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Scarlet Badis peaceful or aggressive?
Scarlet Badis is classified as mostly peaceful with an aggression score of 3 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Scarlet Badis live alone?
Yes, Scarlet Badis can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Is Scarlet Badis safe with shrimp?
No. Scarlet Badis is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Does Scarlet Badis have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Scarlet Badis benefits from plants - densely covered, plants - lighly covered, and sand (sifters) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Similar Species
Bumblebee Goby (Brackish)
Brachygobius xanthozonus
A miniature, bottom-dwelling goby famous for its striking black and yellow stripes. While they are often sold as freshwater fish and can survive in it temporarily, they are highly susceptible to fungal infections in fresh water and truly require a brackish setup (SG 1.002-1.005) to thrive long-term. They are notoriously picky eaters, often ignoring flakes in favor of live or frozen foods (like bloodworms or brine shrimp).
Honey Gourami
Trichogaster chuna
The smallest and most peaceful member of the Trichogaster genus. Ideally suited for planted nano aquariums. Unlike the aggressive Dwarf Gourami (*T. lalius*), Honey Gouramis are timid and gentle. True Honey Gouramis rarely exceed 5cm. Note: Many bright red fish sold as 'Red Honey' or 'Red Robin' are actually Thick-lipped Gouramis (*T. labiosa*), which grow larger.
Sparkling Gourami
Trichopsis pumila
A stunning nano species known for its iridescent blue/green eyes, body spots, and ability to make audible 'croaking' sounds. Unlike many anabantoids, they are social and best kept in groups. However, they are efficient micropredators that will hunt shrimp fry and pests like hydra. Requires stable water parameters and dense planting.
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
A peaceful to semi-aggressive labyrinth fish native to South Asia. Famous for their brilliant metallic blue and red stripes. While generally suitable for community tanks, males are territorial toward each other and similar-looking fish. They are sensitive to water quality and prone to Iridovirus if stressed. Requires access to the surface to breathe.
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black)
Caridina cantonensis
A sensitive, highly prized dwarf shrimp species known for its vivid red/white or black/white banding. Unlike the hardy Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina), Bee Shrimp require cool, soft, acidic water and typically require active buffering soil to thrive. They are peaceful grazers perfect for specific biotope setups.
Zebra Loach
Botia striata
A highly active, beautifully striped bottom dweller endemic to the Western Ghats of India. Unlike some larger botiid loaches, the Zebra Loach is peaceful and stays relatively small, making it an excellent community fish. They are highly social, strict schooling fish that establish complex pecking orders. They are also famous for being voracious consumers of pest snails.