Do paradise fish need a heater?

Paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis) are tropical fish that originate from Southeast Asia. They are native to slow-moving or stagnant waters, such as rice paddies and swamps. The natural habitat of paradise fish is characterized by warm temperatures, ranging from 75 to 86°F (24 to 30°C).

Because paradise fish are adapted to living in warm climates, they require a heater to maintain a suitable temperature in their aquarium. Without a heater, the water temperature may drop below the ideal range, causing the fish to become stressed, susceptible to disease, or even die.

The optimal water temperature for paradise fish is between 75 and 82°F (24 and 28°C). A heater with a thermostat allows you to precisely control and maintain the desired temperature within this range.

It is important to ensure that the heater is properly sized for your aquarium to achieve and maintain the desired temperature effectively. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations when choosing a heater based on the size of your aquarium and the surrounding room temperature.

Additionally, it is advisable to monitor the water temperature regularly using a reliable thermometer to ensure that the heater is functioning correctly and the water temperature remains within the ideal range.

In summary, paradise fish require a heater to maintain a suitable water temperature within a tropical range of 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C) to thrive and stay healthy in captivity.