Quick Care Details (Table)
| Livestock Characteristics | Value |
|---|---|
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Maximum Size | 2.5 Inches |
| Minimum Tank Size | 10 Gallons |
| Plant Safe | Yes |
| Temperature Range | 72-82F |
| PH Range | 6.0-7.5 |
| KH Range | 2-10 Degrees |
| GH Range | 5-15 Degrees |
Species Specific Categories
Helpful Video
Care Details
Aquascape
- Create a well-planted aquarium with a mix of live plants, floating plants, and driftwood.
- Provide plenty of hiding spots like caves, rocks, and crevices to mimic their natural habitat.
- Use dark-colored substrates and subdued lighting to create a calm and secure environment.
Substrate
- Use a fine to medium-sized dark-colored substrate like sand or gravel.
- Dark substrates can bring out the colors of the fish and create a natural-looking setup.
- Avoid sharp or rough substrates that could harm the sensitive barbels of the Blue Perch.
Disease Prevention
- Quarantine new fish and plants before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Maintain good water quality through regular water changes and proper filtration.
- Avoid overfeeding to prevent excess organic matter from polluting the water.
Filtration
- Use a good-quality filtration system suitable for the tank size and bioload.
- Consider a filter that provides biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration for optimal results.
- Ensure gentle water flow to avoid stressing the Blue Perch.
Lighting
- Provide moderate to low lighting for the aquarium.
- Blue Perch are shy and prefer subdued lighting conditions.
- Use adjustable LED lights to control the intensity and duration of lighting.
Water Flow
- Blue Perch prefer slow to moderate water flow.
- Avoid strong currents as it can stress and disorient the fish.
- Adjust the filter output or use baffles to reduce water flow if necessary.
Hardiness
- Blue Perch (Badis badis) are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of water conditions.
- They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0 to 7.5) and a temperature range of 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C).
- Maintain good water quality and stable water parameters to support their health.
Jumping
- Badis badis have been known to jump out of the aquarium, particularly when startled or stressed. Ensure the tank has a secure lid or cover to prevent accidental escapes and minimize any potential harm to the fish.
Temperament and Behavior
Aggression
- Blue Perch are not aggressive towards other fish in the tank.
- However, during breeding, males may become territorial and exhibit some aggression towards other males or intruders near their bubble nests.
Breeding
- Breeding Blue Perch can be challenging and requires specific conditions.
- Males build bubble nests at the water surface to entice females for spawning.
- After spawning, the male guards the eggs and fry until they become free-swimming.
Compatibility
- Blue Perch are best kept in a species-only or species-specific setup due to their shy and reclusive nature.
- Avoid keeping them with larger or more active fish, as they may be outcompeted for food and space.
- In a larger tank, they can coexist with small, peaceful fish that occupy different areas of the tank, but still, monitor for compatibility.
Activity Level
- Blue Perch are generally inactive and spend much of their time hiding or exploring their surroundings in a cautious manner.
- They are not very active swimmers and prefer slow movements.
- Bottom-Dwelling Behavior, Badis fish are primarily bottom-dwelling fish and spend a significant amount of time exploring and foraging near the substrate. They may sift through the sand or gravel in search of food, so ensure the substrate is fine-grained and free of sharp edges to prevent injury.
Clean up Crew
- Blue Perch are not considered "clean up crew" fish and do not actively scavenge for leftover food or algae.
- If there is uneaten food or debris in the tank, it's best to use a separate clean-up crew like snails or small catfish.
Schooling or Shoaling Behavior
- Blue Perch are solitary fish and do not exhibit schooling or shoaling behavior.
- They prefer to live alone or in pairs, especially during breeding.
- Select peaceful tank mates that share similar freshwater parameters and are not overly aggressive or fin-nippers. Avoid keeping them with large or boisterous fish that may intimidate or outcompete them for food.
- Peaceful Nature: Badis fish are generally peaceful but may exhibit territorial behavior during breeding. Provide adequate hiding spots and monitor interactions between individuals.
- Badis fish are carnivorous and typically feed on small invertebrates and insect larvae in the wild. They may exhibit stalking or pouncing behavior when capturing food. Observe their feeding patterns and adjust the feeding routine accordingly to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.
- During breeding or when establishing territories, males may exhibit territorial behavior. They may engage in fin flaring, chasing, or displaying vibrant colors to assert dominance or attract females. Providing visual barriers and ample hiding spots can help alleviate potential conflicts among adult male. This behavior is mostly towards the same badis species.
Diet and Nutrition
Dry Foods
- Blue Perch can be fed high-quality micro-pellets or granules designed for small fish.
- Choose products with a balanced mix of proteins, vitamins, and minerals to meet their dietary needs.
Frozen Foods
- Offer frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae as occasional treats.
- Frozen foods are rich in nutrients and can add variety to their diet.
Live Foods
- Blue Perch enjoy live foods such as live brine shrimp, microworms, baby daphnia, or small insect larvae.
- Live foods provide essential nutrients and can stimulate their natural hunting behaviors.
Vegetables
- Blue Perch are primarily carnivorous and do not rely on vegetables as a significant part of their diet.
- While they may occasionally nibble on blanched and finely chopped vegetables like spinach or zucchini, these should be offered as supplemental treats only.
Algae
- Blue Perch are not algae eaters, and algae should not be a significant part of their diet.
- However, they may graze on small amounts of algae in the tank.
Feeding Schedule
- Feed Blue Perch small portions 2-3 times a day.
- Adjust the feeding amount and frequency based on their appetite and behavior.
- Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to water quality issues and health problems.
Supplemental Foods
- Offer supplemental foods such as frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex worms, blackworms, and baby brine shrimp.
- Supplemental foods provide variety and additional nutrients to their diet.
Tank Parameters
Tank Size
- Blue Perch (Badis badis) can be kept in a tank size of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group or species-specific setup.
- A larger tank, such as a 20-gallon (75 liters) tank or more, is recommended if keeping multiple Blue Perch.
Tank Length and Measurements
- Tank dimensions for a 10-gallon tank could be around 20 inches (51 cm) in length, 10 inches (25 cm) in width, and 12 inches (30 cm) in height.
- Tank measurements for larger tanks will vary based on the specific tank model and manufacturer.
The Species Maximum Size
- Blue Perch (Badis badis) typically reach a maximum size of about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) in length.
- They are small fish, making them suitable for smaller aquarium setups.
Water Temperature
- Blue Perch prefer a tropical water temperature range of 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C).
- Maintaining the water temperature within this range is important for their overall health and well-being.
pH (Acidity/Alkalinity)
- The recommended pH range for Blue Perch is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.5.
- Keeping the pH level stable within this range helps prevent stress on the fish.
KH (Carbonate Hardness)
- The recommended carbonate hardness (KH) level is around 2 to 8 dKH (35.7 to 142.9 ppm).
- Carbonate hardness helps stabilize the pH level and buffer against rapid pH fluctuations.
GH (General Hardness)
- The general hardness (GH) level should be around 5 to 15 dGH (89.5 to 267.9 ppm).
- GH refers to the concentration of dissolved minerals in the freshwater.
Nitrate (NO3) Levels
- Blue Perch are sensitive to high nitrate levels, which can negatively impact their health.
- Aim to keep nitrate levels below 20 ppm, and regular freshwater changes can help achieve this.
History, Popularity, History and Species Variety Details
History and Popularity
Badis badis, commonly known as the Blue Perch, is a small freshwater fish that belongs to the family Badidae. It is native to the freshwater habitats of India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, where it can be found in slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. This species was first scientifically described in 1822 by the Scottish naturalist Francis Buchanan-Hamilton, who named it Badis badis.
In its native range, Badis badis inhabits areas with dense vegetation and submerged structures, where it can find shelter and suitable hunting grounds. It is often found in areas with sandy or muddy substrates, among aquatic plants, and near fallen leaves or tree roots. These habitats provide hiding spots for the fish and mimic their natural environment.
Over the years, Badis badis has gained recognition and popularity among aquarium enthusiasts for its unique characteristics and striking appearance. Its popularity has grown as more people discover and appreciate its beauty, behaviors, and compatibility with various aquarium setups.
In the early years, the availability of Badis badis in the aquarium trade was limited, and the species remained relatively unknown to many hobbyists. However, as interest in more unusual and lesser-known fish species increased, Badis badis started to garner attention. Dedicated breeders and enthusiasts began successfully breeding and propagating the species in captivity, making it more accessible to hobbyists worldwide.
The intricate coloration and patterns displayed by male Badis badis have played a significant role in its popularity. Males exhibit vibrant metallic blues, iridescent greens, and hints of red and orange, creating a stunning visual display in the aquarium. These colors intensify during courtship and territorial displays, further adding to their allure.
Badis badis' relative ease of care, adaptability to a range of water conditions, and compatibility with peaceful tank mates have also contributed to its popularity. It can be kept in small to medium-sized aquariums, making it suitable for a variety of setups, including nano tanks or community tanks with other compatible fish species.
Although Badis badis has gained popularity, it remains a somewhat specialized species in the aquarium trade. Hobbyists who appreciate unique and lesser-known fish species often seek out Badis badis for its distinctive qualities and the challenge it presents in terms of care and breeding.
Breeding the Badis (Blue Perch)
- Tank Setup: Prepare a separate breeding tank with appropriate dimensions and conditions. A tank size of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended. Maintain stable water parameters within the preferred ranges for pH, temperature, KH, and GH.
- Select Breeding Pair: Identify a compatible breeding pair of Badis badis. It is best to introduce a male and a female into the breeding tank. Look for individuals that exhibit good health, vibrant colors, and desirable physical traits.
- Condition the Breeding Pair: Provide the breeding pair with high-quality and varied foods leading up to the breeding process. Offer a diet consisting of live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and small insects, to ensure they are well-nourished and in optimal condition.
- Provide Suitable Nesting Sites: Add suitable nesting sites in the form of small caves, PVC pipes, or dense clumps of fine-leaved plants like Java moss. These structures will serve as potential spawning sites and offer shelter for the eggs and fry.
- Trigger Breeding Conditions: Mimic the natural breeding conditions by slightly increasing the water temperature and providing low lighting. Gradually raise the temperature to the upper end of the preferred range (around 82°F or 28°C). Maintain a photoperiod of 10-12 hours of light per day.
- Courtship and Spawning: Observe the male Badis fish as he displays courtship behaviors, which may include flaring fins, vibrant color displays, and zigzag swimming patterns. The male will entice the female to the chosen nesting site, where the eggs will be deposited and fertilized.
- Egg Care: After spawning, the male will guard the eggs. The number of eggs can range from a few dozen to several hundred, depending on the size and condition of the female. The male will diligently fan the eggs with his fins to provide oxygenation and prevent fungus growth.
- Remove the Female: Once spawning is complete, it is advisable to remove the female from the breeding tank to prevent her from eating the eggs. She can be returned to the main tank or a separate holding tank.
- Fry Care: The eggs will hatch in approximately 4 to 7 days. Once the fry have hatched, they will cling to the nesting site or nearby surfaces. The male will continue to guard and protect the fry for a short period. At this stage, you may need to provide infusoria or liquid fry food to ensure proper nutrition.
- Gradual Separation: After a week or so, when the fry become free-swimming, it is recommended to separate them from the male to prevent any aggression or cannibalism. Move the fry to a separate rearing tank with appropriate conditions and provide them with small live or powdered foods suitable for their size.
- Growth and Development: Continue to provide appropriate feeding and care for the fry as they grow. Monitor freshwater quality, maintain stable parameters, and perform regular freshwater changes to ensure their well-being.
Male gender vs Female gender (Sexual Dimorphism)
- Size: In some cases, males can be slightly larger than females, with a more elongated body shape. However, this difference may not be significant, so additional indicators are necessary.
- Coloration: Males often exhibit more vibrant and intense colors compared to females. They may display deeper blues, brighter greens, and hints of red or orange. Females, on the other hand, may have more subdued colors.
- Markings: Males may display more intricate and pronounced patterns and markings on their bodies, such as stripes, spots, or bands. Females may have less distinct or faded markings.
- Dorsal Fin Shape: Males often have a more elongated and pointed dorsal fin compared to females, whose dorsal fin may be shorter and more rounded.
- Behavior: During breeding, males may exhibit territorial behavior and engage in courtship displays, including flaring their fins and displaying vibrant colors to attract females.
- Vent Location: In some cases, males may have a vent located slightly closer to the anal fin, while females have a vent positioned slightly closer to the tail. This difference may be more noticeable during breeding season.
Different Variety of Badis
- Badis badis (Blue Perch/Scarlet Badis):
- One of the most popular species in the hobby.
- Males have stunning blue, red, and orange coloration.
- Peaceful and shy fish, best kept in a species-only or species-specific setup.
- Badis blosyrus (Blosyrus Badis):
- Native to India and Bangladesh.
- Males have a beautiful iridescent blue-green coloration with red fins.
- They are relatively peaceful but can be territorial during breeding.
- Badis khwae (Khwae River Badis):
- Found in Thailand and Myanmar.
- Males are known for their striking red and blue coloration.
- They are peaceful and can be kept in groups or pairs.
- Badis pyema (Burmese Badis):
- Native to Myanmar (Burma).
- Males have a unique color pattern with a mix of blue, orange, and black.
- They are relatively peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish.
- Badis assamensis (Assam Badis):
- Found in India and Bangladesh.
- Males have a mix of blue, green, and yellow coloration.
- They are generally peaceful but can be territorial during breeding.
- Badis ruber (Red Badis):
- Native to Myanmar and Thailand.
- Males have a striking red coloration with black stripes on their fins.
- They are generally peaceful but can be territorial during breeding.
- Badis chittagongis (Chittagong Badis):
- Found in Bangladesh.
- Males have a mix of green, blue, and black coloration.
- They are relatively peaceful and can be kept in groups or pairs.
- Badis tuivaiei (Tuivai Badis):
- Native to India and Myanmar.
- Males have a beautiful mix of blue, green, and orange colors.
- They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum size of Badis badis?
Badidae Badis typically reach a maximum size of around 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm) in length. Gender will play a role on the max size, since females are generally smaller than males.
Are Badis badis aggressive?
Badis badis are generally peaceful fish. However, males may exhibit territorial behavior during breeding or when establishing their territories. It's important to provide ample hiding spots and monitor their interactions with tank mates.
What should I feed Badis badis?
Badis badis are carnivorous and prefer a varied diet. Offer them high-quality dry foods like small pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and small insects.
Can I keep Badis badis in a community tank?
Badis badis can be kept in a community tank with peaceful, non-aggressive tank mates. Avoid keeping them with large or boisterous fish that may intimidate or outcompete them for food. Also keep in mind that if the other fish can fit the Badis in its mouth then it will most likely eat it.
What are the ideal aquarium parameters for Badis badis?
The preferred freshwater parameters for Badis badis are slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.5), temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), and general hardness (GH) of 5 to 15 degrees.
Are Badis badis suitable for beginners?
Badis badis are generally considered suitable for aquarists with some experience. They have specific care requirements and may pose challenges during breeding. However, with proper research and attention to water conditions, they can be successfully kept by dedicated beginners.
How many Badis badis can be kept in a tank?
Badis badis are best kept in small groups or pairs. For a 10-gallon (38-liter) tank, a pair or a small group of 4 to 6 individuals can be suitable. Larger tanks allow for more individuals and additional territories.
Are Badis badis jumpers?
Yes, Badis badis have been known to jump out of the aquarium, particularly when startled or stressed. It is important to provide a secure lid or cover on the tank to prevent accidental escapes.
Can Badis badis be bred in captivity?
Yes, Badis fish can be bred in captivity. Breeding requires specific aquarium conditions, such as appropriate tank setup, suitable nesting sites, and proper conditioning of the breeding pair. Successful breeding can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor.
How long do Badis badis live?
With proper care, Badis fish can live for around 3 to 5 years on average. However, some individuals have been known to live longer with optimal aquarium conditions and good care.
Can Badis badis be kept with shrimp or snails?
Badis fish may view small shrimp or snails as potential prey, especially when hungry. Therefore, keeping them with shrimp or snails can be risky. If you choose to do so, provide ample hiding spots for the invertebrates and closely monitor the interactions. It is rare that they will eat small snails but it is possible. Smaller shrimp are mostly at risk, if your little guy is bigger than an inch you wont have any problems with the Badis eating them.
Can Badis badis tolerate water currents?
Badis fish prefer slow-moving or still water conditions. Strong water currents can cause stress and make swimming difficult for them. It is best to provide gentle filtration to maintain water quality without creating excessive water flow.
Do Badis badis change colors?
Yes, Badis fish can display color changes depending on their mood, health, or breeding aquarium condition. Males, in particular, may exhibit more intense and vibrant colors during courtship or territorial displays.
