Indian Blue Badis

The Indian Blue Badis is a small and beautifully colored freshwater fish that comes from slow moving streams and rivers in India. Known for its bright blue highlights, shy personality, and interesting behavior, this species is a great choice for nano aquariums and peaceful community setups. They are part of the Badidae family and are closely related to the Scarlet Badis, sharing many of the same care traits but offering their own unique look.

Indian Blue Badis typically grow to around two inches, making them ideal for planted tanks and smaller aquariums. Their bodies show iridescent blue and green shades that become more vibrant when they are comfortable or during courtship displays. Males tend to be more colorful and may show territorial behavior, while females are usually smaller and have more subdued colors.

A well maintained aquarium is important for keeping Indian Blue Badis healthy. They prefer clean, well oxygenated water with gentle flow. A tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended, especially if keeping a group. They feel most secure in a habitat with live plants, driftwood, and hiding spaces such as rock caves. Soft to moderately hard water and stable parameters are ideal, and regular water changes help maintain the high quality they need.

Feeding Indian Blue Badis can be a little different from typical community fish. They often prefer live or frozen foods over dry pellets or flakes. Offering foods like baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and microworms will help keep them healthy and bring out their colors. Over time, some individuals may accept high quality prepared foods, but it is best to include regular feedings of live or frozen options.

These fish can be kept with peaceful tank mates, but avoid larger or overly active species that may outcompete them for food. Ideal companions include small rasboras, peaceful tetras, dwarf corydoras, and shrimp. Males may display territorial behavior toward each other, so keeping one male with multiple females or maintaining a larger group with plenty of hiding spots can reduce aggression.

Breeding Indian Blue Badis is possible in a well set up aquarium. Males will choose a cave or sheltered spot and display to attract a female. After spawning, the male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Providing fine foods for the fry, such as infusoria and baby brine shrimp, is important for raising the young.

The Indian Blue Badis is a rewarding species for aquarists who enjoy smaller fish with unique color and behavior. With proper care, peaceful tank mates, and a natural aquascape, these fish thrive and bring a vivid splash of blue to the home aquarium.