The Paradise Fish was one of the first "tropical" fish ever imported into the United States as an aquarium fish. It is not a true tropical fish, and can handle both room and cooler temperatures without trouble (though it cannot handle cold temperatures!). It is an airbreathing fish, and ideally suited for small desktop aquaria without filtration, provided both water quality and air quality are kept ideal. Indeed, it is probably a better "bowl" fish than a domestic Betta, though this is a less than ideal situation for any fish.

Paradise fish, like most anabantoids, can be jumpy, so a tight fitting aquarium cover is needed.

Paradise fish are not aggressive, and will not bother other fish, with the exception of other anabantoids. Paradisefish males may fight in a confined space, and they will attack similar appearing anabantoids, including Betta.