Paradise fish

Macropodus opercularis

Illustration of paradise fish

The paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis) is a aggressive fish that grows to about 4 inches and spends its time near the surface. Keep only one male per tank, in a tank of 20 gallons or more, at 61–79°F and pH 6–8.

20 galsmallest tank
4″adult size
61–79°Ftemperature
6–8pH
1 maleper tank
Aggressivetemperament
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Good tankmates

Avoid

  • ✕Neon tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Cardinal tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Ember tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Black skirt tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Serpae tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Glowlight tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Rummy-nose tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
  • ✕Lemon tetra: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.

From TankCoach's own species data: common hobby guidance for adults, rounded. Individual fish vary. Not veterinary advice.