25 Scarlet Badis Tank Mates

Finding suitable tank mates for Scarlet Badis is crucial if you want to set up a harmonious community tank. In this article, we’re exploring 25 species that get along well with your Scarlet Badis. Read on to ensure you’re creating the best aquatic community.

by Fabian

Updated: July 28, 2023 / 16 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Ember Tetras

Becoming one of the most popular nano fish, Ember Tetras make great companions for Scarlet Badis. The tiny, bright orange fish bring a burst of color to your tank. They prefer densely planted areas and a calm environment. Ember Tetras are docile and sociable, living peacefully along with other species.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will accept a wide range of foods
• Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm)

Their small size, peaceful nature, and ease of care make them a compatible choice for your Scarlet Badis’ tank. Plus, they contribute to a beautiful, vibrant aquarium habitat.

Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras are brilliant, lively freshwater fish well-suited as Scarlet Badis tank mates. Their vibrant neon-blue stripe running from nose to tail add a dash of color, while their peaceful nature ensures a harmonious community.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-80°F (20-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Thrive on a variety of flake, pellet, and frozen foods
• Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Note, Neon Tetras prefer tanks with plenty of plants for hiding spots, mimicking their natural Amazon river basin habitat. They’re schooling fish, so aim for a group of at least six for a relaxed, stress-free environment.

Green Neon Tetras

Green Neon Tetras are a stunning choice for a Scarlet Badis tank mate. Boasting vibrant colors and similar size, they add diversity to your tank while ensuring compatibility.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy to intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, finely chopped live, frozen or flake food
• Adult Size: Up to 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Your Scarlet Badis will likely get along seamlessly with these social, mild-tempered fish. Plus, their easy care level and flexible diet make them an ideal choice for any aquarium enthusiast, from beginners to experts.

Cardinal Tetras

Cardinal Tetras are beautifully striking with their mix of blue and red across their bodies. They are a peaceful and schooling species, making for excellent companions for your Scarlet Badis.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, accepts most foods
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Cardinal Tetras are known for their ease of care and adaptability, making them great tank mates even for beginners. They do prefer a densely planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. As they are active swimmers in schools, they help liven up any aquarium.

Pygmy Corydoras

Pygmy Corydoras are perfect companions for your Scarlet Badis. These modest swimming buddies are peaceful, non-destructive, and easygoing, making them natural in the aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (37.85 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores; they enjoy flake food, small pellets, and freeze-dried or live brine shrimp and bloodworms
• Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Noted for their mini size, Pygmy Corydoras like to zip around the tank floor. They are more active during the day and love a well-planted tank. Providing them with good quality water and a nourished diet will make them a joy to have and observe.

Dwarf Rasboras

Dwarf Rasboras, also known as Boraras maculatus, are amazing tank companions for Scarlet Badis. These small, colorful fish are peaceful and don’t invade the territory of the Scarlet Badis. Therefore, they score a perfect 5 out of 5 in compatibility.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (40 liters)
• Temperature Range: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet of dried, frozen, and live foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Their minimal care requirements and sociable personality make them an ideal Scarlet Badis tank mate. Plus, their bright colors make for a visually dynamic tank environment.

Chili Rasboras

When considering ideal Scarlet Badis companions, Chili Rasboras should definitely come to mind. These incredibly colorful small fish are peaceful, making them perfect for cohabitation in a community tank.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-83°F (20-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. They eat pellets, flakes and frozen or live foods like daphnia and brine shrimp.
• Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm)

Chili Rasboras bring a fiery red burst of color to the aquarium and can help bring out the rich ruby red of your Scarlet Badis. They require similar water conditions to Scarlet Badis, providing an easy, hassle-free solution for your tank.

Celestial Pearl Danios

Celestial Pearl Danios are an attractive choice for your Scarlet Badis tank. They are small, peaceful fish and their vibrant colors are quite visually appealing.

• Compatibility: 4/5 – These danios get along well with Scarlet Badis.
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) – They prefer spacious environments.
• Temperature Range: 73-79°F (23-26°C) – Warm is the preferred condition.
• Care Level: Easy – Suitable for beginners and experts alike.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They hardly ever show aggression.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Provide a diverse diet containing both plant-based and meaty foods.
• Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm) – These fish remain small, which reduces the bioload on the tank.

Kuhli Loaches

Kuhli Loaches are a great choice for a Scarlet Badis tank mate due to their peaceful temperament. These bottom dwellers are nocturnal and are therefore less likely to bother your Scarlet Badis.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-85℉ (24-29℃)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, will eat small invertebrates and plant matter
• Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)

Kuhli Loaches spend the majority of their time hiding among the tank’s substrate or decorations, so they need plenty of hides. They do well in a tank with soft, sandy substrate where they can burrow. Keep in mind, they are avid jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is necessary to prevent them from jumping out.

Clown Plecos

Clown Plecos, also known as Panaqolus maccus, are an excellent choice as Scarlet badis tank mates. They are non-aggressive and thrive in similar conditions. A highlight is their ability to help control algae in your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Min 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72 to 86°F (22 to 30°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; feed them algae, vegetables, and sinking pellets
• Adult Size: 3.5 in (9 cm)

Remember, Clown Plecos are pleco species smaller than the others. It makes them perfect to share a tank with Scarlet badis. But ensure that their wood-based dietary needs are met for guaranteed satisfaction.

Otocinclus Catfish

One of the tiniest fish to share a tank with your Scarlet Badis is the Otocinclus Catfish. Their diminutive size and docile temperament make them ideal tank mates for your Scarlet Badis. With a small appetite for algae, they’ll help clean your tank as they coexist peacefully.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (37.8 l)
• Temperature Range: 72-79F (22-26C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. Natural algae eater but they can also enjoy veggies like zucchini and commercial algae wafers.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5.08 cm)

However, they are social creatures, thus you should keep them in small groups. Also, their delicate health requires good water conditions and a lot of hiding spaces.

Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin rasboras are small, vibrant fishes that can make great tank mates for your scarlet badis. With their striking, metallic colors, and peaceful nature, these fish bring both beauty and harmony to any tank.

• Compatibility: 5/5. Harlequin rasboras are communal and non-aggressive, making them splendid companions for scarlet badis.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters). They like room to swim, but don’t require excessive space.
• Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C). They appreciate warm, tropical temperatures.
• Care Level: Easy. They are hardy fish that aren’t overly demanding.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They typically avoid conflict with other fish.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. They enjoy a varied diet of flakes, granules, and live foods.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5cm). Their small size further boosts their compatibility with other species.

Rummy Nose Tetras

Rummy Nose Tetras are great companions for your Scarlet Badis. Their peaceful nature ensures they coexist without any conflicts. These fish tend to hang out in schools, providing a fascinating spectacle for observers. They have a preference for a densely planted aquarium with plenty of places to hide and the temperature should be kept between 75-81°F (24-27°C).

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Medium
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – feed them high-quality flake food, brine shrimp, daphnia, and freeze-dried bloodworms.
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm)

Considerations: Water quality is pivotal for these tetras, so regular partial water changes are advised. Always remember to keep their environment stress-free. They are small, delicate, but very active swimmers and will add a touch of color to your tank.

Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios makes an excellent choice for Scarlet Badis tank mates. Enthusiastically swimming on the top areas of the tank, these tiny, unique fishes bring immense joy to an aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (37.85 litres)
• Temperature range: 65-77°F (18-25°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They enjoy algae, brine shrimp, Daphnia, and tubifex. Don’t forget to feed them with a quality flake or pellet food to ensure a well-rounded diet.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Zebra Danios won’t fuss about water quality, making them a worthwhile choice as Scarlet Badis companions. Their peaceful temperament envelops the tank environment with an incredibly calming effect.

Endler’s Livebearers

Endler’s Livebearers make great tank mates for your Scarlet Badis. They are peaceful, active swimmers that add a splash of vibrant color to your tank.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-80°F (23-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful and lively
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, enjoys flakes, frozen, or live food
• Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)

Endler’s Livebearers are lively and interactive. They respect the territory of the Scarlet Badis and won’t cause any trouble. They prefer to swim in the middle to top of the tank which gives the Badis plenty of bottom space. Plus, these fish are easy to care for, making them a great addition to your tank.

Pygmy Hatchetfish

Pygmy Hatchetfish make delightful additions to your Scarlet Badis tank.

• Compatibility: 4/5. These fish are peaceful and can coexist comfortably with Scarlet Badis. They enjoy being in groups, leading to a dynamic tank atmosphere.
• Tank Size: 10gal (38 liters). Despite their small size, they prefer ample space to swim.
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C). Pygmy Hatchetfish thrive in warmer temperatures typical of tropical aquariums.
• Care Level: Moderate. They need specific water conditions, regular feeding to keep their health optimal.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They’re known for their friendly demeanor and will not disturb other fishes in the tank.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed them a balanced diet of small live foods, pellets, and flakes.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). This small size makes them an ideal tank mate for the equally petite Scarlet Badis.

Sparkling Gourami

Sparkling Gouramis are small, peace-loving fish that can co-exist harmoniously with your Scarlet Badis. They are eye-catching due to their shiny body and are easy to care for.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They enjoy a mix of dry flakes, live foods, and frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1-2 inches (3-5 cm).

Gouramis sift through the bottom sand looking for food particles, which helps to keep your tank clean. They are an ideal tank mate for Scarlet Badis owing to similar size and calm temperament.

Pea Puffers

Pea Puffers are small, vibrant fish that bring an element of personality to your tank. As a tropical freshwater species, they thrive in warm, mildly acidic water. A fascinating aspect about these fish is their intelligent nature that allows them to recognize their owners.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5. They can be slightly territorial, so maintaining a spacious tank is crucial for their coexistence with Scarlet Badis.
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum.
• Temperature Range: 72 – 82 °F (22 – 28 °C).
• Care Level: Moderate. They require a varied diet and specific water conditions.
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive.
• Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous. They enjoy a diet of small live invertebrates, frozen foods, and snails.
• Adult Size: Up to 1 inch (2.5 cm).

Remember, while they make charming tank mates, understanding their needs and behavior is key to a harmonious tank.

Honey Gourami

Honey Gourami is a colorful, peaceful fish known for its easy-going nature. It’s a fantastic choice for a Scarlet Badis tank mate, given its non-aggressive temperament.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 77 – 82 degrees F (25 – 28 degrees C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. Enjoys flake food, brine shrimp and bloodworms.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Honey Gouramis are known to adapt well to different environments. Just make sure to provide them with diverse food options and plenty of foliage for hiding. Moreover, they prefer subtle water currents, mimicking their natural habitats.

African Dwarf Frogs

These amphibians are top choices for Scarlet Badis companions due to their peaceful nature.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores; will eat pellets, live and frozen foods
• Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

African Dwarf Frogs are excellent swimmers but need to surface for air. Therefore, ensure your tank isn’t too tall. They are mostly bottom-dwellers and won’t interfere with the Scarlet Badis’ middle to upper tank space.

Remember to feed them sinking food as they can’t feed at the surface! A well-rounded diet keeps these frogs healthy and happy. Be cautious though, their feeding habits take some getting used to due to their impaired vision.

Cherry Shrimp

Cherry Shrimp are attractive, small crustaceans that can brighten up aquariums with their vibrant red color. These invertebrates are truly magnificent to behold and meet the following conditions:

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Requires at least 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: Comfortably lives within a range of 65-85°F (18-29°C)
• Care Level: Low maintenance, perfect for beginners
• Temperament: Peaceful, a great addition to communal tanks
• Diet & Feeding: Primarily omnivorous
• Adult Size: Grows to about an inch (2.5 cm)

They generally get along well with Scarlet Badis, making them an undeniable favorite among tank enthusiasts. Plus, their low-maintenance nature provides relief to those just embarking on their fishkeeping journey. Ensuring they have plenty to nibble on, like biofilm or algae, will keep these colorful little creatures happy.

Amano Shrimp

Amano Shrimp is a popular choice due to its unique ability to eat large amounts of algae; a great advantageous point. They are tough, compatible, and often survive in a range of water conditions, hence, a good tank mate for Scarlet Badis.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (approx 38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-80°F (approx 21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – they eat algae and leftover fish food
• Adult Size: 2 inches (approx 5 cm)

Amano Shrimp coexist nicely with other tank mates, further adding to the serene ambiance of your tank. However, avoid pairing them with larger, more aggressive species as they may become a snack.

Ghost Shrimp

Ghost shrimp, also known as Glass shrimp, are an interesting addition to your Scarlet Badis tank. They are small, transparent, and easy to care for.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed on algae, plant debris and left over foods
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

They do well in a community set-up and are fine with Scarlet Badis. However, ghost shrimp have a short lifespan of about a year. Keep them in groups and provide a tank with plenty of hiding places.

Nerite Snails

Nerite Snails are a great addition to a Scarlet Badis tank. Known for their beneficial algae-eating habits, these snails pose no threat to their tankmates. The peaceful nature makes them an ideal companion for your Scarlet Badis. 

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 5 gal (18.9 litre)
• Temperature Range: 72-80 F (22-27 C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Herbivorous, will consume algae and leftover food
• Adult Size: Up to 1 inch (2.5 cm)

In addition, they are adaptable to many different water conditions, making them easy to care for. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, Nerite Snails are a great choice. Remember, like all species, they also contribute to the bio-load of your tank and should never be overstocked.

Mystery Snails

Mystery snails are a popular choice when it comes to selecting tank mates for Scarlet Badis. These peaceful fellows add some variety to your aquatic pet collection.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Add variety to their diet by feeding them blanched vegetables along with their regular snail mix.
• Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm)

Having mystery snails in your tank not only enhances its aesthetics but ensures a somewhat self-cleaning habitat due to their scavenging habits. Their ability to adapt makes them perfect companions for Scarlet Badis.

Conclusion

Of course, there are a multitude of options when looking for tank mates for your Scarlet Badis, these 25 choices are a good place to start. Thank you for going on this journey with us! Feel free to leave a comment below sharing your personal experiences or preferences when it comes to tank buddies for these intriguing little fish.