Badis badis or Chameleon fish (Badis badis)

The chameleon fish, or Badis badis, is a small, interesting species that can change color based on its environment and mood. This fish, named after a reptile, is a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts because of its unusual ability to blend into its surroundings. It is native to the slow-moving waters of India.

The chameleon fish is a calm and somewhat shy animal that frequently chooses to hide in the aquarium’s decorations and plants. It may be peaceful, but at its core, it is a predator, consuming small invertebrates and other microscopic creatures. It is an intriguing addition to any aquarium because of its combination of a gentle disposition and predatory instincts.

Although it takes some attention to detail to keep Badis badis healthy and happy, the effort is well worth it. These fish can flourish in the correct conditions, showcasing their stunning colors and fascinating behaviors. The chameleon fish is a species worth considering for your tank, regardless of your level of experience.

Habitat and Range

Natural habitats along the Ganges River system, extending from Bangladesh’s Yamuna delta to India’s Himachal Pradesh. It can also be found in Nepal’s Ganges tributaries, and in parts of Assam (including the city of Guwahati, Kaziranga National Park, and the Dibra River basin) as well as in the Mahanadi River system in the Indian states of Chhattisgarh and Orissa.

Other capture locations are described as having turbid water, a slow moving current, and thickets of underwater vegetation—often accompanied by a solid carpet of water lily leaves.

Size

50–60 mm is the maximum standard length.

Aquarium

An aquarium with a base measuring at least 80 by 30 cm can accommodate a pair or a small group.

It will feel fantastic in an appropriately designed aquarium with sand or gravel as the substrate and a few large or rounded pebbles for hiding places. If desired, but not required, aquarium plant species that can be grown attached to the décor can be added. Dried leaves, floating plants, and natural driftwood and branches can all be incorporated into the aquarium’s design; however, the lighting and filtration should not be overly powerful.

To serve as potential spawning sites, some cave-like decorations or grottoes should be incorporated into the underwater landscape. Many breeders use half of a coconut shell or inverted ceramic pots with holes for access.

Water parameters

Outside temperature: 20–25°C

Hardness: 6 to 18 degrees

Filtration using aeration and regular water changes are crucial. The fish’s coloring will be even more vibrant if the water is filtered through peat.

Aquarium enthusiasts adore the tiny, vibrant species of fish known as Badis badis, or chameleon fish, for its capacity to alter color based on mood and surroundings. Originating from the leisurely-paced waters of South Asia, this fish is comparatively simple to maintain, which makes it an excellent option for novice and expert hobbyists alike. Any freshwater aquarium is enhanced by its distinct charm due to its serene disposition and captivating behavior.

Behavior and compatibility

This species can be frightened, but it is naturally sedentary and inactive. It also does not compete with bigger or more aggressive fish for food. Naturally, unless the tank is extremely large, it should never be kept with other Badis species due to the possibility of hybridization. It should also never be kept with territorial bottom-dwelling fish. Notably, it can feed on freshwater shrimp belonging to the well-known genera Caridina and Neocaridina.

They are a peaceful species, but it is best to keep them in a tank designed specifically for their kind. If snails are an issue in the aquarium and you need to lower their population, these fish are very helpful. These are timid, small, tropical freshwater fish that are regarded as one of the most underappreciated species in the aquarium hobby. Despite their intriguing coloration and individuality, which make them reminiscent of dwarf cichlids, they are neglected, which makes them an intriguing species to keep and watch.

They should be kept with other peaceful, calm fish like small characins, catfish, and rasebbas because they are inactive and peaceful.

As opposed to being schooling fish, chameleon fish (Badis badis) can be extremely aggressive toward one another, particularly in small areas. In these situations, you only need to buy a pair or a male and several females; other groups can live together in a large aquarium as long as there’s space for each male to mark his territory.

This can be aided by carefully placing caves and hideouts; for instance, avoid trying to congregate all of the spawning sites in one place.

Diet

As micropredators, all species of Badis consume other zooplankton, worms, and small aquatic crustaceans. They frequently reject dried food in an aquarium, so you should give them frozen or live food that is the right size, like Artemia, Daphnia, or Corethra.

They are cautious and cautious eaters, and it’s vital to remember that when given a regular diet of bloodworms and tubifex, all species become obese and more prone to illness, so these should be avoided on a daily basis.

Sexual Dimorphism

In comparison to males, females are smaller, less colorful, lack side blue pigmentation, and have a notably shorter, rounder body.

The caudal, anal, and dorsal fins of mature males are longer.

Breeding

This genus’ members form transient pairs and are shelter/cave spawners. If you want to raise more fry, it’s best to keep other species out, though some might make it in a carefully chosen aquarium community. Adults can spawn in pairs or groups, but if multiple males are involved, make sure to provide a cave for each of them.

Water parameters in the spawning tank: pH 6.5-7.0, dε> 10 °C, and 25-27 °C.

Seasonal rains are one of the indicators in the wild that typically indicate the start of the breeding season. The natural habitat’s waters get softer during the rainy season. With regular water changes (about 15 percent per day for breeding), you can replicate this effect in your breeding tank. Additionally, their seasonal spawning cycle will be stimulated by demineralized water. A decrease in atmospheric pressure is an additional organic catalyst for proliferation. Actually, a lot of fish species will spawn either before or during a storm or lightning storm.

Live food is preferred both before and during the spawning period.

Rival males become more hostile and initiate courtship behavior with females who enter their territory when they are ready to breed. They will exhibit color changes during this process; the body will start to darken and eventually turn nearly black, with brilliant blue fins. It is typical for men to literally try to drag their partners into the cave by mouth grabbing. When a willing female responds, she swims inside and spawns, laying between 30 and 100 eggs on average.

After spawning, the female immediately swims away and the male takes full responsibility for the eggs and larvae, protecting the area from intruders and fanning the brood with his fins. Any other adult fish can be removed at this point, although this is not absolutely necessary. The larva hatches from the eggs usually after 2-3 days, will swim in another 6-8 days, after another week or so the young will begin to leave their cave. At this point the parent may begin to view them as food, and it is better to transfer them to a separate aquarium. The fry are quite sedentary for the first few days, which means that microfood (infusoria, rotifers) is an ideal initial food, but as soon as they clearly/visibly begin to swim in the water column, Artemia nauplii can be introduced into the diet.

Even in nano aquariums, the uncommon and vibrant aquarium fish Badis Badis is a wonderful addition.

The chameleon fish can survive in an aquarium for three to five years with the right care.

A fascinating species that gives a distinct charm to any aquarium is the Badis badis, also known as the chameleon fish. Observing them is a delight because of their peaceful demeanor and capacity to change color. These fish may be a rewarding addition to your tank for both novice and expert aquarists.

It’s crucial to replicate their natural habitat for them to survive, complete with lots of hiding places and a diet rich in nutrients. To guarantee their longevity and health, regular monitoring and maintenance of the water is also essential.

The Badis badis might be the ideal choice if you’re searching for a fish that combines intriguing behavior with beauty. They can have a long and happy life in your aquarium if you give it the care it needs.

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