Fin's Fish Guide
The Badis (Badis badis) is a freshwater fish of the family Badidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The blue badis is a small perch-like fish (Badidae) from South Asia. The species is small, stocky and can change its colour quickly from bluish to brown or dark, matched to mood and surroundings. It lives solitary and concealed among vegetation and bottom structure in rivers, ponds, ditches and swamps. As a small predator it snaps small invertebrates, worms and insect larvae. The male guards the eggs in a cavity. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Badis?
The Badis has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Can change colour rapidly (chameleon effect); secretive small perch whose male guards the eggs.
Where does the Badis live?
The Badis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia; rivers, ponds, ditches and swamps.
How big does the Badis get?
The Badis grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Badis dangerous to humans?
No, the Badis is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Badis edible?
The Badis is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Badis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Badis is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Badis
More from the family Badidae
Want the complete picture on the Badis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Badis is one of 12,519 species in the app.