Paradise Fish

The Paradise Fish is a colourful and hardy freshwater species known for its striking blue, red, and orange markings, flowing fins, and confident personality. One of the earliest tropical fish kept in the aquarium hobby, Paradise Fish remain popular for their impressive appearance, interesting behaviour, and ability to tolerate a wider range of temperatures than many tropical species.

Paradise Fish are labyrinth fish, meaning they possess a specialised organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air from the water's surface. While hardy and adaptable, they can be territorial, particularly mature males, so careful consideration should be given when selecting tank mates.

• Common Name: Paradise Fish
• Scientific Name: Macropodus opercularis
• Family: Osphronemidae
• Adult Size: Approximately 8–10 cm
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive / territorial
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Minimum Tank Size: Approximately 60 litres+
• Temperature: Approximately 18–26°C
• pH: Approximately 6.0–8.0
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Aquarium Level: Middle to upper levels
• Breeding: Bubble-nest builder
• Lid: Secure aquarium lid recommended

Feeding

Paradise Fish are enthusiastic feeders and accept a wide variety of foods. Provide a quality tropical pellet or flake as the staple diet, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other appropriately sized foods.

A varied diet helps maintain excellent body condition, healthy growth, and strong natural colouration. Feed small amounts once or twice daily and avoid overfeeding.

Aquarium Care

Provide a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding areas and visual barriers using plants, rocks, and driftwood while retaining open areas for swimming. Floating plants can also provide additional cover and help create a more natural environment.

Tank mates should be selected carefully. Avoid very small, timid, slow-moving, or long-finned species that may be harassed. Mature males can be particularly territorial towards other Paradise Fish and similar-looking species.

Because Paradise Fish regularly breathe from the surface, ensure they always have unobstructed access to atmospheric air. A secure lid is recommended to reduce the risk of jumping while maintaining a warm, humid layer of air above the water.

Shipping

• Australia-wide shipping available where permitted
• Fish are carefully packed for safe transport
• Local pickup available by appointment from Fins 'N' Feathers
• Shipping availability may depend on destination, weather conditions, and applicable biosecurity restrictions

Live Arrival

Please inspect livestock immediately upon arrival. If there is an issue with your order, contact us as soon as possible in accordance with our live arrival policy and provide clear photos of the fish in its unopened transport bag where applicable.

Actual size, colour, fin development, and pattern may vary between individual fish due to age, sex, genetics, stress, and environmental conditions.