Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Paradise Gourami, also referred to with either Blue or Red as part of the common name in addition to also being known as the Chinese Fighting Fish, are another example of a very popular freshwater fish species in the hobby. Wild specimens are rare in the hobby, as Paradise gouramis have been produced on a commercial farm basis for quite some time now. Males are an iridescent blue with bold, contrasting orange stripes and a lyretail. There can be considerable variation among individuals in the vibrancy of coloration. Females are infrequently offered, but are otherwise duller than males. Gouramis are Labyrinth fish, which means that they can directly breathe from the surface. An adult Paradise gourami can reach a size of approximately 3″.

Diet Requirements: Paradise gouramis are omnivores, but greater emphasis should be on offering quality protein. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable based and protein based flake foods, sinking micro pellet foods and bug bites are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single male Paradise gourami. A larger aquarium will decrease its somewhat territorial behavior that could be exhibited more profoundly in small quarters. Paradise gouramis are intolerable of nitrite and ammonia spikes. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard (Nitrates < 20 ppm). Because these gouramis are tank-bred, they are very adaptable to a wide range of water parameters. The aquarium can be aquascaped with rocks and driftwood to provide ample hiding places, but vegetation (preferably live) should be on the denser side. Paradise gouramis would also benefit from some floating plants to provide areas of shade. Without sufficient hiding places and shade, this species can be extremely shy and more withdrawn. Only one male Paradise gourami should be kept per aquarium. Avoid other Labyrinth fish, including Bettas, and long-finned fish that are slow-moving, such as guppies. Compatability with other gourami species is variable, but should only be attempted in very large aquariums that can accommodate them all. A Paradise gourami would thrive best in a community-type aquarium that does not have overly competitive or aggressive tank mates. Tetras, rasboras, certain barbs and more peaceful cichlids are all good options. Recommended water conditions, 68-76° F, KH 3-18, pH 6.0-8.0.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1-3/4” to 2-1/4”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.