Albino Paradise Fish
Macropodus opercularis “Albino”
Maximum Size: ~4 in (10 cm)
Lifespan: 6–8 years, occasionally longer with excellent care
Recommended Aquarium Size
-
Minimum tank: 20 gallons for a single fish or pair
-
Better: 30 gallons+ if keeping additional tankmates
Water Parameters & Maintenance
-
Temperature: 70–78°F (21–26°C)
-
pH: 6.5–7.8
-
They prefer moderate flow; they tolerate lower oxygen thanks to their labyrinth
-
Water changes: 25–35% weekly
-
Cover: Provide floating plants and secure lids—these fish are skilled jumpers
General Care
Albino Paradise Fish retain all the hardiness of the standard Paradise Fish, but with reduced pigmentation and pink/pearl coloration. They thrive in well-planted aquariums. Provide caves, branches, and dense vegetation to allow retreat space.
They tolerate a wide temperature range and can even be kept in unheated indoor aquariums if room temperature is stable. Keep only one male per tank unless the aquarium is very large and heavily scaped to diffuse aggression.
Tankmates
Larger rasboras and barbs, Giant danios, Rainbowfish, Yo Yo Loaches, Corydoras, other paradise fish
Avoid
- Other gouramis unless the tank is large enough with lots of scape to prevent fighting
Diet
They are omnivorous with a strong carnivorous leaning:
-
Staples: Quality pellets and flakes for carnivorous/omnivorous species
-
Frozen & Live Foods: Bloodworms and brine shrimp
-
Occasional Vegetables: spirulina-containing foods
Varying the diet enhances color and condition.
Natural Environment
The species originates from East and Southeast Asia—China, Korea, northern Vietnam. They inhabit cool to warm forest streams, rice paddies, slow-moving waters, and shallow vegetated ponds. These habitats often contain varying oxygen levels, which is why the species evolved the labyrinth organ allowing it to breathe atmospheric air.
The albino form does not occur naturally but behaves the same as the wild phenotype.
Breeding
-
Type: Bubblenest builder
-
Conditioning: High-quality live/frozen foods to bring male and female into breeding form
-
Setup:
-
10–20 gallon lightly filtered tank
-
Floating plants or a piece of Styrofoam for nest anchoring
-
Warm water (76–80°F / 24–27°C)
-
-
Spawning:
-
Male builds a bubblenest and will guard the nest
- The fry will hatch and be swimming within 2-4 days
- The fry can be fed live brine shrimp and powdered foods
-
