The livestock that is sold on our online site is not held in store at our Birchwood Aquatic Centre shop. Species sold at the Birchwood Aquatic Centre physical store may differ from ones available to order to your door.
Paradise Fish Macropodus Opercularis 4cm
Image for illustration purposes only. Exact colours, patterns, and size may vary between individuals.
Delivered alive, guaranteed
Live fish delivery is £20 per order, delivered Thursday, Friday or Saturday, arriving before 1:00pm on the day you choose at checkout. Packed by aquatic specialists and shipped overnight with a dedicated livestock courier, every fish is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee with automatic refunds. See How Live Fish Delivery Works for full details.
When will my fish arrive?
| Order placed | Delivery day |
|---|---|
| Up to Monday 11:00am | Thursday (that week) |
| Monday after 11:00am – Tuesday 11:00am | Friday (that week) |
| Tuesday after 11:00am – Wednesday 11:00am | Saturday (that week) |
| Wednesday after 11:00am – Sunday (any time) | Thursday (following week) |
Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis)
Overview
The Paradise Fish is a classic freshwater labyrinth species, admired for its long flowing fins, vibrant coloration, and hardy nature. Peaceful in some setups but capable of territorial displays, it is a visually striking addition to both community and species-specific tanks.
Origin
Native to East and Southeast Asia, including China, Vietnam, and Taiwan. Found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and rice paddies with abundant vegetation and calm waters.
Feeding
Omnivorous. Accepts high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia), and small live foods. A varied diet supports vibrant coloration and activity.
Tank Mates
Semi-aggressive. Suitable with robust, non-fin-nipping species, or kept in species-only setups. Avoid very passive or long-finned fish that may be harassed.
Aggression
Moderate. Males are territorial, especially when breeding. Provide hiding spots and visual barriers to reduce stress and conflicts.
Experience Level
Intermediate. Hardy but requires monitoring of tank mates, water quality, and territorial behavior.
Water Parameters
-
Temperature: 70°F – 82°F (21°C – 28°C)
-
pH: 6.0 – 8.0
-
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
-
Notes: Provide plants, driftwood, and caves for shelter. Low to moderate water flow replicates natural conditions.
Hardy, striking, and interactive, the Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis) is ideal for aquarists seeking a classic, colorful labyrinth fish for freshwater tanks.
Please Note
The livestock that is sold on our online site is not held in store at our Birchwood Aquatic Centre shop. Species sold at the Birchwood Aquatic Centre physical store may differ from ones available to order to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
In insulated boxes designed for live transport, packed by aquatic specialists,
overnight with a licensed live-animal courier, arriving before 1pm.
It is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
Photograph it within 4 hours of delivery, email info@birchwoodaquaticcentre.co.uk with your order number, and the refund is processed automatically. The cover continues for 7 days after arrival.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. You pick your day at checkout; please choose a day someone is home.
Yes. One basket, one checkout; the fish arrive with the specialist courier and the rest of your order ships as normal.
We can deliver to UK mainland only for live fish.
Follow the five-minute acclimatisation steps in our When Your Fish Arrive guide: float the bags, add tank water gradually, net the fish in, lights low, feed tomorrow.