Chinese Paradise Fish

Macropodus ocellatus, sometimes called the Chinese or round-tail paradise fish, is native to slow-moving and stagnant waters across China, Korea, and Japan. It is the most cold-tolerant of the paradise fishes, surviving temperatures down to 10°C.

Unlike M. opercularis it has a rounded caudal fin and slightly more subdued patterning, though males in breeding condition display attractive blue-green iridescence and red fin markings. Its personality is equally bold and curious.

This species is well-suited to biotope tanks replicating East Asian rice paddies or ponds, with floating plants and earthy substrates. It can be kept outdoors in mild climates during the warmer months.