Paradise fish profile

[bcui]Tank Maintenance
[ci]Given their ability to breath air and high tolerance to different temperatures, these fish do not require a filter and in the right circumstances do not require a heater either. They are completely aquarium plant safe and will benefit from the presence of plants but do not require them. If a filter is present, the flow should not be that strong as they do not even need flow in the first place and it very well may carry them off.

[cbui]Diet
[ci]Paradise Fish are carnivores that desire a high protein diet. Eating small insects in the wild, live foods such as Scuds, Blackworms, Daphnia, Brine Shrimp are good live food options that will replicate their diet. In commercial use, high protein betta foods from Omega One and Hikari offer great choices to use as food. Above all else, Hikari’s Vibra Bites are highly recommended.

[cbui]Behavior and Compatibility
[ci]Given that they are an anabantoid that while still on the smaller side can be aggressive, special care should be taken to guarantee high success chances while keeping them with tank mates. When keeping Paradise Fish together with similar bodied fish like a gourami or their own, they may show signs of territorial aggression, especially during breeding season. To reduce the chance of aggression, overstocking the tank will alleviate a large portion of aggression found in these species but not entirely. Still monitor any injuries or missing parts of fins and watch for any signs of aggression. Additionally, Paradise Fish should not be kept with any quick fin nipping fish that could bring them potential harm. Peaceful schooling fish such as Corydoras, Tetras, Rasboras and Danios being viable options. Additionally, they may do well with slower moving fish such as Angels.

[cbui]Sexual dimorphism
[ci]Paradise Fish possess similar sexual differences to those of their Betta brethren as males possess larger fins and tails and exhibit a higher aggression level than females do. Male Paradise Fish also generally are larger in size than the females and tend to possess brighter coloring as well. Males also blow bubblenest a while females may get lighter in color while stressed and during breeding.

[cbui]Appeal
Paradise Fish are an interesting fish that was forgotten by the hobby. With beautiful coloring and strong personalities, they have the potential to be the stand out fish in any aquarium. They can take the place of a centerpiece fish or simply a fish on its own. They also need very little when it comes to equipment only truly requiring a smaller sized fish tank and have no need for filters or heaters which makes them a friendly fish for a lot of people’s wallets. They are commonly referred to as the betta alternative which is a deserving title.  They are just easy beautiful fish to consider the next time you have an open tank.