Assam Badis

About

The Assam Badis (Badis assamensis) is a small, slow-moving fish from the forested lowland swamps and sluggish tributaries of northeastern India, where it inhabits shallow, tannin-stained water over sandy bottoms shaded by overhanging trees. It belongs to the family Badidae, a group with a long taxonomic history and a surprising number of species described only recently. The Assam Badis is part of a small clade alongside B. blosyrus, distinguished by a characteristic pattern of alternating light and dark body striping. The two species look nearly identical at a glance, though assamensis runs slightly larger and has a noticeably shorter jaw. In the aquarium it's a rewarding fish for patient, intermediate-level keepers who are willing to design the tank around its needs. Males are territorial and can be rough with one another, so plenty of cover, caves spread throughout the tank, and broken sightlines are genuinely important rather than optional extras. Tankmates should be chosen carefully. Active or nippy fish will stress it, and small shrimp are likely to be eaten. Upper-level, peaceful schooling fish work well as company. Breeding is a highlight of keeping this species: males undergo vivid color changes during courtship and take sole charge of guarding the eggs and young after spawning, which makes for fascinating watching.