🐅 Dario tigris – Tiger Badis – Medium to Large

📖 Overview The Tiger Badis (Dario tigris) is one of the rarest and most striking badis species, known for its bold black vertical striping over a reddish-orange body. Native to the Brahmaputra River basin in India, this species is prized by aquarists for its exotic appearance and fascinating behaviors. Like other Dario, it is a micro-predator that thrives on live foods and is best kept in planted nano aquariums.

Because of its rarity and specialized feeding needs, D. tigris is recommended for more experienced fishkeepers.

🌟 Key Features

• ✅ Rare & Exotic: One of the hardest-to-find Badis species
• ✅ Bold Patterning: Striking tiger-like vertical black stripes
• ✅ Nano-Friendly Predator: Perfect for planted species tanks
• ✅ Micro-Predator Diet: Prefers live and frozen foods
• ✅ Personality Fish: Territorial males display brilliant colors during courtship

📐 Care Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Dario tigris
• Common Name: Tiger Badis
• Origin: India (Brahmaputra River basin)
• Size: Medium–Large (1.5–1.75 inches)
• Lifespan: 3–5 years
• Temperament: Peaceful but territorial, especially males
• Tank Size: 10–15 gallons minimum (species setup ideal)
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 72–78°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Diet: Carnivorous – live and frozen foods (baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, grindal worms). Rarely accepts prepared dry foods.

🧠 Behavior & Tank Mates

• Species-Only Recommended: Males are territorial; best kept with females in harems.
• Community Options: Peaceful rasboras, shrimp, or small fish if not outcompeted for food.
• Shy Feeders: Ensure access to live/frozen foods in mixed tanks.

❓ FAQ

Q: How rare is Dario tigris in the aquarium trade?
A: Very rare—far less common than Scarlet Badis or Dario hysginon.

Q: Can Tiger Badis live in community tanks?
A: They can, but they often do best in species-only aquariums due to their shy feeding habits.

Q: What makes them different from other Badis?
A: Their bold tiger-like stripes and rarity make them especially sought after by collectors.