Chocolate Gourami

Description

Chocolate Gourami – Sphaerichthys osphromenoides

Care level: Moderate
Max Size: 6cm
Diet: Omnivore
Temp: 25-28°C
PH: 4.0-6.0
Purchase size: 3-4cm

The Chocolate Gourami is one of the rarer species in the hobby as they are a little more difficult to keep. This is a shy fish that prefers a peaceful aquarium with exceptionally soft and acidic water.

The Aquarium

It is essential that the aquarium for these fish is already mature as Chocolate Gouramis as very sensitive in fluctuation parameters and pollutants. The filtration needs to be efficient and produce a gentle flow. The aquarium itself should be well planted with plenty of bog wood and other furnishings to act as hiding places. Lighting is best kept dimmed and substrate and background should be dark to help these shy fish feel secure. The addition of botanicals such as catappa leaves and alder cones will further encourage the water to remain soft and releasing beneficial tannins whilst also mimicking the gourami’s natural habitat.

Behaviour

This is a very shy species that’s best kept in a group of 6 or more specimens. Males and females are easily distinguished from one another and provided that there is ample space, they will cohabit quite well. This is a mouthbrooding species that will carry its young in the mouth until the fry are big enough to fend for themselves. Breeding them, however is very challenging.

Tank Mates

Choosing tank mates for this gourami can be challenging due to the acidic conditions it thrives in and its nervous disposition. Small species of rasboras and dwarf barbs could be considered, as well as Kuhli Loaches. Nippy and boisterous species should be avoided, as well as all Betta.

Food should be offered in the form of micro pellets and fresh or frozen fish foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp.

If you have any questions about keeping these fish and whether they’re suitable for you, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions

Why not check out our other photos of some of the best livestock to have graced our tanks!