Blue Paradise Fish (4cm) is a hardy, vibrant freshwater species with stunning blue hues. Perfect for medium aquariums and experienced aquarists.

Add a splash of brilliance to your aquarium with the Blue Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis), a stunning labyrinth fish known for its vivid blue coloration, flowing fins, and hardy nature. At 4 cm in size (juvenile stage), this fish is a great choice for aquarists seeking a colorful and low-maintenance species with unique behaviors.

Native to Southeast Asia, Blue Paradise Fish is an active, semi-aggressive species that thrives in well-planted aquariums with calm surface areas. Their ability to breathe atmospheric air through a labyrinth organ makes them tolerant of low-oxygen environments, perfect for aquariums without strong aeration.

✅ Key Features

• Size: 4 cm (juvenile), grows up to 10 cm as an adult

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial (especially males)

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

• Lifespan: 6–8 years with proper care

• Special Trait: Labyrinth organ allows them to breathe air

Care Guide for Blue Paradise Fish

✅ Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 liters (10 gallons) for a single fish, larger for pairs

• Aquascape: Provide dense plants, driftwood, and hiding spots

• Surface Access: Ensure open water surface for air-breathing

• Lighting: Moderate; bright light enhances colors

• Cover: Tight-fitting lid – they can jump

✅ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)

• pH Level: 6.0 – 8.0 (tolerant but prefers neutral)

• Water Hardness: 5 – 20 dGH

• Filtration: Gentle flow; avoid strong currents

• Water Changes: 25–30% weekly for optimal health

✅ Feeding Habits

Blue Paradise Fish are omnivorous with a strong preference for protein.

• Recommended Diet:

  • High-quality pellets and flakes

  • Live or frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)

  • Occasional vegetable matter (blanched spinach or zucchini)

Feed small portions twice daily to maintain vibrant coloration.

✅ Tank Mates

Blue Paradise Fish can be territorial, especially males, so tank mate selection is crucial.

Ideal Tank Mates:

• Peaceful, similar-sized species (barbs, danios, larger rasboras)

• Bottom dwellers (Corydoras, loaches)

Avoid:

• Other labyrinth fish (Betta, Gourami)

• Small, delicate fish or fin-nippers

• Multiple males in a small tank

✅ Behavior & Breeding

• Behavior: Active swimmer, often displays flaring behavior

• Breeding: Bubble nest builder; males create nests at the surface and guard eggs

• Tip: Provide floating plants to encourage bubble nest formation

Why Choose Blue Paradise Fish?

• Striking blue coloration and flowing fins add elegance

• Hardy and adaptable, great for intermediate aquarists

• Unique labyrinth organ allows survival in low-oxygen tanks

• Engaging breeding behavior for enthusiasts

✅ Perfect for medium aquariums and aquascaped tanks
✅ A colorful and charismatic species for your freshwater collection