Currently among the specimens of Badis badis bred by commercial breeders relatively often aberrant specimens are found. A closer look on these fishes reveils that besides the unusual irregular black pattern the basic body colour is a deep red. There can be no doubt that these animals are hybrids.
Quite recently only one species with three or four “subspecies” was recognized as valid in the genus Badis. The real diversity in Badis was completely unknown. Some breeders buy now and then wild collected specimens to refresh the blood in their stock, although this is not necessary in fish, as the great number of offspring usually allows to avoid defects resulting from inbreeding. The example of the Piebald-Badis clearly shows on the other hand that it is very dangerous to cross fish of unknown origin. Nevertheless these hybrids are pretty aquarium inhabitants that can be kept like all Badis. They refuse dry food, but readily accept frozen food. The Piebald-Badis are very active and often fight with each other. These fights are totally harmless. It is unknown if it is possible to breed with the hybrids.
Lexicon: Badis: after the Bengal name for the species Badis badis.
Text & Photos. Frank Schäfer
