Description

A colorful fish is an anabantoid (Labyrinth fish) meaning that it breathes atmospheric oxygen as well as dissolved oxygen.  It requires a larger aquarium with lots of hiding places for the female. Although they do not eat plants, they can have a tendency to damage them during courtship and battles with their tank mates.

Species – Paradise Fish – Macropodus opercularis

Current Size – 3.5cm – 4cm

Adult Length – 10cm

Temperature Range – 10 – 22°C

pH Range – 6.0 – 8.0

Special Requirements – The paradise fish is happy at much lower temperatures than most fish in this family. They are often kept in unheated aquariums and still thrive.

Tanks Mates and Compatibility – similarly-shaped fishes should be avoided but can be maintained alongside peaceful schooling species with comparable environmental requirements.

Males are territorially aggressive, this behavior becoming more pronounced during reproductive periods, and should not be housed together unless the aquarium is very large. It is also advisable to provide two or more females per male in order to disperse male attention.

Feeding – Likely to prey on insect larvae and suchlike in nature, and should be offered small live or frozen Daphnia, Artemia, white worm, grindal worm, etc., in captivity. Some high-quality dried products may also be accepted.