Black Paradise Fish | Macropodus Spechti

Type of paradise fish.

IUCN Red List: LC

Native to central vietnam particularly the Thu Bồn River system in Quảng Nam province, and the Hương (aka Perfume) River basin in Thừa Thiên-Huế province,.

Like the name suggest, the Black paradise fish is a dark colored gourami like fish with beautiful black outline on the fishes scales.   Males have extended anal dorsal and caudal fins while females have a much rounder body.  Unlike bettas, these fish tolerate their peers and usually establish a pecking order in groups.  A pair can be kept together in a 10 to 20-gallon tank.  They are also very hardy and tolerant of different water temperatures making them great beginner fish.

Basic Information

Temperament: Somewhat territorial, but can be kept in groups as long as there’s enough space. We recommend a pair per 5 gallons of water.

Maximum Size: 5 inches (including tail)

Diet: Readily take dried foods.

TDS ~ 60 + (can tolerate high tds water)

pH ~ 6.0 -7.8 (water quality isn't that important)

Temperature: 70 - 83F (does well in cooler temp, but higher temp induce coloration and breeding behaviors)

Diet: Carnivorous, we currently feed them blackworms, frozen bloodworms and pellets.

Breeding: Bubble nester