Scarlet Gem Badis by LiveAquaria
The Scarlet Gem Badis is a shy, small freshwater fish considered one of the more underrated species in the hobby. Its brilliant coloration and unique personality reminiscent of dwarf cichlids make the Scarlet Gem Badis quite an interesting species to study.
Males feature 7 dark vertical bars across the sides with bold red coloration, while females exhibit uniform grayish coloration or indistinct vertical bars. Breathtaking coloration and activity peaks during spawning, with rival males “facing off” or “dancing” alone for a female’s attention.
Preferred Habitat
The typical biotope for the Scarlet Gem Badis is clear, slow-moving streams with marginal vegetation. In the home aquarium, the Scarlet Gem Badis prefers densely planted aquariums with sandy substrate or fine gravel and plenty of surface vegetation.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | Up to 2.5 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| Water pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Water Hardness | 1–8 dGH |
FAQ
What is the difference between male and female Scarlet Gem Badis?
Males have 7 dark vertical bars with bold red coloration, while females have uniform grayish coloration or indistinct vertical bars.
What kind of aquarium setup does the Scarlet Gem Badis prefer?
It prefers densely planted aquariums with sandy substrate or fine gravel and plenty of surface vegetation.
When is the Scarlet Gem Badis most active?
Activity peaks during spawning, when males display vibrant coloration and engage in “facing off” or “dancing” behaviors to attract females.
Stephanie Blake –
The Scarlet Gem Badis is a fascinating addition to my tank. The males are striking during breeding season, showing clear color changes and interesting behaviors. I keep them in a heavily planted tank with sand substrate and they seem calm and well-adjusted.
Karen Coleman –
I was initially skeptical about a shy fish, but the Scarlet Gem Badis has adapted well. The coloration is vivid, especially in males during spawning. I’ve noticed the males interacting in a natural way, which is both beautiful and engaging.
Jennifer Arnold –
This species adds a unique touch to my community tank. The tank looks more dynamic with the fish moving subtly through the plants. I appreciate how they don’t dominate the space and stay peaceful with other small fish.