Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis) Care Guide

One of the first tropical fish kept in aquariums, with bold red and blue vertical stripes and flowing fins.

Overview

Macropodus opercularis is a species in the family Osphronemidae. One of the first tropical fish kept in aquariums, with bold red and blue vertical stripes and flowing fins. Hardy and tolerant of cool temperatures, but males are highly aggressive toward each other and may bully smaller tank mates.

Taxonomy

Family: Osphronemidae
Genus: Macropodus
Scientific name: Macropodus opercularis
Other names: Paradise Gourami
Origin: East Asia, China, Taiwan, Vietnam

Habitat

Native to East Asia from the Korean Peninsula and southern China to northern Vietnam. Inhabits still and slow-moving waters including rice paddies, ditches and stagnant pools, breathing atmospheric air through a labyrinth organ. One of the first ornamental fishes imported to Europe in the 19th century.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 80 L
Temperature: 16-26 °C
pH: 6-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 8-11 cm
Lifespan: 5-8 years
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: aggressive
Swimming level: top
Compatible tank mates: Bristlenose Pleco, Corydoras, Larger Barbs
Avoid with: Betta, Other Gouramis, Small Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: bubble-nester
Breeding difficulty: beginner