BLUE PARADISE GOURAMI | MACROPODUS OPERCULARIS

The Blue Paradise Gourami (Macropodus opercularis) is one of the most striking and hardy labyrinth fish in the aquarium hobby. Originating from slow-moving waters and rice paddies across Southeast Asia—particularly Vietnam, China, and Malaysia—it has long, flowing fins and vibrant bands of blue, red, and turquoise that shimmer under aquarium lighting.

Adult males grow to about 4 inches (10 cm) and display more intense coloration and longer fins than females. They’re known for their intelligence and territorial behavior, especially males during breeding, so they do best either solo, in mated pairs, or in larger tanks where territories can be established.

Ideal water parameters:
Temperature: 70–82°F (21–28°C)
pH: 6.0–8.0
Hardness: 5–30 dGH

They are labyrinth fish, meaning they can breathe air from the surface, so ensure the tank has access to open air above the water. Blue Paradise Gouramis prefer well-decorated aquariums with plants, driftwood, and hiding spots but also some open swimming space. A lid is important—they can jump.

Diet: They’re omnivorous and thrive on a mix of flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. A protein-rich diet helps maintain their intense colors.

Tankmates: They can be semi-aggressive, particularly toward other gouramis or similar-looking species, so they’re best housed with fast or robust fish like barbs, larger tetras, or rainbowfish. Avoid slow or long-finned tankmates such as bettas or angelfish.

Fun fact: The Blue Paradise Gourami was one of the first tropical fish kept in aquariums over a century ago, prized for both its beauty and its hardiness—it can even tolerate cooler temperatures better than most tropical fish.