Source: Wikimedia Commons
Scarlet Badis
AdvancedDario dario
A gem-like tiny fish with beautiful red coloration. Known as a micro predator.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
22〜28℃
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
1.5-2cm
Diet
Frozen food, Live food
About
The scarlet badis (Dario dario) is an extraordinarily small freshwater fish native to the Brahmaputra River drainage in India, classified as one of the smallest known percoid vertebrates. Males reach only 1.5–2 cm; females are even smaller at approximately 1 cm. Despite their tiny size, males display breathtaking coloration — vivid alternating red and iridescent blue vertical bands across the body, earning them a devoted following among nano fish enthusiasts. Community tank keeping is problematic: their tiny size makes them vulnerable to outcompetition and predation by virtually any other fish. A species-only setup or a tank with dwarf shrimp and similarly sized micro fish is strongly recommended. The most significant challenge is feeding: many individuals stubbornly refuse prepared foods, accepting only live or frozen offerings such as bloodworms, brine shrimp nauplii, and daphnia. Breeding occurs under plant leaves or in small crevices, with males guarding eggs. Their jewel-like beauty at microscopic scale attracts passionate dedicated keepers worldwide.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Scarlet Badis
The Scarlet Badis lives 3-5 years.
Size of the Scarlet Badis
The Scarlet Badis grows to 1.5-2cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Scarlet Badis
The ideal water temperature for the Scarlet Badis is 18〜26℃.
Water conditions of pH 6.5–7.5 at 22–26°C are suitable.
Basic Info
Origin
Brahmaputra River drainage, India
Care Specifications
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Dario dario is not listed on CITES.
Sources: Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Scarlet Badis Listings
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