Badis Badis Info

[jah29]

I wasn't really sure where to put this thread, but since they're the most similar to dwarf cichlids, I figured this would be an okay place.

1) Has anybody ever had any experience keeping Badis badis?
2) Are they active fish?
3) Will they accept flake food, or only take frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and blood worms?
4) Are they peaceful fish? Can I keep them with resboras or neon tetras for example?
5) What is the minimum recommended tank size for a small shoal?
6) Although this may be pushing it, would I be able to keep 5 or 6 of these fish in a 20 gallon tank?

Thanks

 

[darth pike]

1) Yes.
2) They hide quite a bit. The more hiding places you have, the more you will see them. Also a group of small dithers will help (rasboras, stay away from danios or barbs).
3) WC Badis usually only take live/frozen, sometimes captive born will take micropellets.
4) Peaceful towards other fish, males can be scrappy with each other.
5) 15 gallons for Badis badis should be alright with 1 male.
6) Pushing a bit. 1 male and 3 females is the most I would do in a normal 20 gallon high. A 20 gallon long might handle that many and 2 males, but I'd keep an eye on them.

You are right in thinking they act like dwarf cichlids, indeed a few of us call them "Asian apistos" in terms of temperment. Very underratted little fish, perfect for a planted asian theme tank.