Paradise Fish

The Paradise Fish is one of the first tropical fish kept in aquariums, discovered in the 1800s. Native to East Asia, these beautiful fish feature blue and red stripes with elongated fins in males. However, they are known for their aggressive and territorial nature, making them unsuitable for most community tanks. They are labyrinth fish that can survive in unheated tanks and are extremely hardy. Best kept alone or in pairs for breeding, they require species-only setups or very carefully selected tank mates.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Paradise Fish need species-only tanks or very robust tank mates.

Essential Setup:

• 20+ gallons for one fish
• 30+ gallons for pair
• Dense planting essential
• Floating plants for nest building
• Caves and hiding spots
• Can tolerate unheated tanks

Water Quality

• Temperature: 61-80°F (16-27°C) - very wide range
• pH: 6.0-8.0
• Water Hardness: Soft to hard (3-25 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Can live in unheated aquariums at room temperature.

Feeding

Omnivores but prefer live foods:

• Quality flakes or pellets
• Frozen foods
• Live foods preferred: Fruit flies, small insects, worms
• Will eat insects from surface

Behavior & Compatibility

Very aggressive:

• Territorial: Defend large areas
• Aggressive: Will attack most tank mates
• Fin nippers: Target slow fish
• Labyrinth fish: Breathe from surface
• Jumpers: Excellent jumpers, lid essential

Tank Mates (If Any):

• Fast, robust fish much larger
• Some recommend zebra danios (but risky)
• Safest: Species only

Never With:

• Betta fish (will fight to death)
• Gouramis (will fight)
• Long-finned fish
• Small fish
• Other Paradise Fish (unless breeding pair)

Coloration

• Males: Brilliant blue and red, long flowing fins
• Females: Duller, shorter fins
• Display colors: Most intense when showing off or fighting

Historical Significance

• First tropical aquarium fish: Popularized in 1869
• Hardiness: Survived in unheated tanks
• Introduction: Started the tropical fish hobby

Breeding

Can be bred but aggressive:

• Male builds bubble nest: Large and elaborate
• Introduce female carefully: Male may kill her
• Remove female after spawning: Male guards nest
• Fry care: Feed infusoria, baby brine shrimp

Alternative Suggestion

For most aquarists, a Betta fish offers similar appearance with easier care and more predictable temperament. Paradise Fish are for experienced keepers who want a challenge.

Tips for Success

• Species only tank recommended
• Excellent lid absolutely required (jumpers)
• Can live without heater
• Very hardy
• Not for community tanks