Paradise Fish - Blue

The Paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis), also known as the paradise gourami, is a stunning and hardy freshwater labyrinth fish native to East Asia. Known for their bold personalities and vivid blue and red stripes, they are famously easy to care for and adaptable to a wide range of temperatures.

Key Species Facts

• Origin: Rice paddies, swamps, and slow-moving streams of China, Vietnam, and Korea.
• Size: Typically grows to 2.5 to 4 inches (6.5 - 10 cm).
• Lifespan: 4 to 6+ years.
• Water Parameters:
  • Highly adaptable.
  • Can survive in unheated aquariums or outdoor ponds (50°F - 90°F).
  • Thrive best at 72°F - 82°F.
  • Prefer a pH of 6.0 - 8.0.

Behavior & Temperament

Belonging to the gourami family, Paradise fish are labyrinth fish, meaning they can breathe atmospheric air directly. They are highly active, curious, and fearless explorers. However, they are also known for being aggressive and territorial. Males, in particular, will fight fiercely with one another and can be fin-nippers toward other fish.

Care & Tank Mates

• Aquarium Setup:

  • Require a tank of at least 20 gallons.
  • Add dense vegetation, driftwood, and floating plants to help diffuse light and provide hiding spots.

• Diet:

  • Omnivores.
  • Thrive on a high-quality, protein-rich flake or pellet diet.
  • Eagerly accept small live foods, brine shrimp, and frozen foods.

• Tank Mates:

  • Due to their combative nature, keep only one male per tank.
  • Best housed with semi-aggressive or robust fish of similar or larger size (e.g., larger tetras, robust barbs, or hardy bottom-dwellers).
  • Avoid peaceful, slow-moving, or long-finned species.