The Paradise Gourami (scientific name: Macropodus opercularis), also known as the Paradise Fish, is a colorful and hardy species popular among aquarists. Here's a detailed overview of this beautiful fish:

Appearance:

• Coloration: Paradise Gouramis are known for their vivid colors, often displaying a mix of bright red, blue, and green stripes. Males tend to have more intense coloration than females.
• Fins: Males have long, flowing fins that are quite impressive. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are often elongated, giving them a dramatic appearance.
• Size: They can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length.

Behavior:

• Temperament: Paradise Gouramis are known for being more aggressive than other gourami species, especially males, who may become territorial and display aggression toward other males or similarly sized fish.
• Tank Mates: They can be kept with other semi-aggressive species like barbs and larger tetras, but it’s best to avoid housing them with slow-moving or long-finned fish, as Paradise Gouramis can nip fins. They are generally not recommended for peaceful community tanks unless with care.

Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters) is recommended, but larger tanks will help mitigate territorial behavior.
• Water Temperature: They are relatively hardy and can tolerate temperatures between 65-82°F (18-28°C), though they do best in the middle of this range, around 75-80°F (24-27°C).
• Water Parameters: Paradise Gouramis prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Substrate and Plants: They appreciate a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots. Since males can be territorial, decorations and plants that break up the line of sight can reduce aggression.

Special Considerations:

• Air Breathers: Like other labyrinth fish, Paradise Gouramis can breathe air directly from the surface, allowing them to survive in lower oxygen environments, though good tank filtration is still necessary.

Diet:

• Feeding: They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae. They should have a varied diet to stay healthy.

Lifespan:

• With good care, Paradise Gouramis can live for 5-8 years in captivity.

Breeding:

• Bubble Nest Builders: Like other gouramis, the male Paradise Gourami builds a bubble nest at the water surface, where eggs are placed after spawning. The male will guard the nest and fry aggressively.
• Breeding Tips: Breeding is relatively easy, but it's best done in a separate breeding tank with warmer water and plenty of plants or floating cover for the female to hide if needed.

Compatibility:

• Solo or Paired: While they can live alone, it’s best to keep only one male in a tank or a pair consisting of one male and one female. Keeping multiple males in the same tank often leads to aggression.

Tank Setup and Maintenance:

• Filtration: A moderate flow from a filter is fine, but they don’t need a strong current.
• Decor: Make sure to provide plenty of hiding spaces, especially if you're keeping a male and female together, as males can sometimes be aggressive during breeding.