Paradise Fish Care Guide

Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 60-78°F. A hardy, colorful labyrinth fish that tolerates cool water but is aggressive toward its own kind and small tankmates.

Care facts at a glance

Quick tips

• Keep one male per tank.
• Use a lid with a gap for air.

San Diego water

Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.

Before you buy

Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.