Dwarf gourami: everything you need to know about keeping and food
The dwarf gourami is a member of the suborder of labyrinth fish. Dwarf gouramis are widely distributed in South Asia and have become an integral part of the aquarium hobby.
In the following, we will explain what you need to consider when caring for dwarf gouramis and what food is suitable for these small aquarium inhabitants.
Dwarf Gourami Profile
- Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius
- Origin: South Asia
- Size: Approximately 5 cm (2 inches)
- Lifespan: 2.5 - 3 years
- Minimum Aquarium Size: 100 liters (26 gallons)
- Recommended Water Temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75 - 82 °F)
- Diet: Omnivorous
Appearance of Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf gouramis reach a length of approximately five centimeters (2 inches). They have a high-backed and stocky body structure. Their scales have a characteristic iridescent shine, which makes them highly popular among aquarists.
Female dwarf gouramis are usually more inconspicuous compared to their male counterparts. Their base color is silver-gray, and they have several vertically running bands with a weak bluish shimmer. The fins of female dwarf gouramis are colorless with a slightly reddish edge.
In contrast, male specimens display a vibrant red coloration in their scales, and the turquoise-blue stripes are also more pronounced. The fins of males are also red and blue in color.
In addition to this classic coloration, selective breeding has led to the development of dwarf gouramis with particularly intense blue or red coloration, which are highly sought after due to their striking appearance.
Another typical feature of the dwarf gourami is its filament-like ventral fins, which are almost the same length as the rest of its body.
Lifespan of Dwarf Gourami
The average lifespan of dwarf gouramis ranges between 2.5 and 3 years. Poor care conditions can further shorten their lifespan.
Origin of Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf gouramis are originally from South Asia. They are found in large numbers in the tributaries of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. During the rainy season, dwarf gouramis prefer nutrient-rich shoreline areas and flood zones. During the dry season, they can also be found in deeper parts of the water.
Despite their small size, dwarf gouramis are popular food fish in Asia. As a result, they have also been introduced to neighboring countries of India such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Myanmar, and Nepal.
Dwarf Gourami Care
The first dwarf gouramis were introduced to Europe in 1903. Since then, they have become very popular aquarium fish and are now found in almost every pet store. As long as certain things are taken into account, they can be kept in captivity without major difficulties.
Dwarf gouramis should be kept in an aquarium with a length of at least 80 centimeters (31 inches) and a capacity of 100 liters (26 gallons) or more. Otherwise, the territorial males may quickly harass female counterparts.
Dwarf gouramis thrive at water temperatures of 24 to 28 °C (75 - 82 °F) and a pH level between 6 and 7.5. During the warm summer months, they can tolerate higher water temperatures for a limited period of a few days.
Aquarium Setup for Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf gouramis prefer a densely planted aquarium. When choosing plants, it is important to include some that reach the water surface. Female specimens can hide among these plants, while male dwarf gouramis use the surface plants for bubble nest construction.
In addition, using a dark substrate is recommended as it enhances the vibrant coloration of male fish.
Tankmates for Dwarf Gourami
From a length of 120 centimeters (47 inches) onwards, it is possible to keep two males with several females in the same aquarium. However, this only works if both fish are introduced to the tank at the same time. Otherwise, the older male will claim the entire aquarium for itself and most likely attack the new competitor.
Dwarf gouramis primarily occupy the upper water layers. They can coexist with peaceful fish species. However, male dwarf gouramis can exhibit aggressive behavior towards other gourami species, making cohabitation challenging.
Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid keeping them with barbs, as barbs tend to nip at the filaments of dwarf gouramis.
Breeding Dwarf Gourami
During the breeding season, female dwarf gouramis lay around 500 eggs. Male fish build bubble nests on plants at the water surface, which can have a diameter of more than 15 centimeters (6 inches).
After egg deposition, the male guards the nest. It takes one to one and a half days for the fry to hatch. Another three or four days later, the small dwarf gouramis become free-swimming and can independently consume food. At this point, the male fish stops parental care.
Dwarf Gourami Diseases
Dwarf gouramis do not live particularly long. To avoid further shortening their lifespan, it is important to pay attention to their health. Changes in water quality can quickly cause problems and lead to illness in these small aquarium inhabitants.
For this reason, dwarf gouramis are generally more suitable for experienced aquarists, while beginners should consider other ornamental fish species if possible.
Some diseases that can occur in representatives of the Osphronemidae family, to which dwarf gouramis belong, include fungal infections, mouth and fin rot, and infectious dropsy.
Dwarf Gourami Feeding
Dwarf gouramis are typical omnivores that will consume almost anything they can swallow. In the wild, they primarily feed on insects, insect larvae, and small mollusks. To provide them with the most appropriate living conditions, it is important to consider their dietary needs during feeding.
A high-quality dry food serves as an excellent foundation for their daily diet. Additionally, dwarf gouramis can be occasionally fed with mollusks and insect larvae in the form of frozen or live food.
Aquaris Fish Food for Dwarf Gourami
In the Aquaris product range, you will find high-quality fish food that ensures the specific nutritional requirements of your dwarf gouramis are met without any difficulty.
Thanks to well-designed formulas and carefully selected ingredients, Aquaris fish food is known for its excellent digestibility. This contributes to healthy growth and ensures that the water quality in your dwarf gourami's aquarium is not unnecessarily affected.
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