Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys osphromenoides) Care Guide

A challenging but rewarding labyrinth fish with a rich chocolate-brown body crossed by several pale vertical bands. One of the few mouthbrooding anabantoids.

Overview

Sphaerichthys osphromenoides is a species in the family Osphronemidae. A challenging but rewarding labyrinth fish with a rich chocolate-brown body crossed by several pale vertical bands. One of the few mouthbrooding anabantoids. Requires pristine, soft, acidic blackwater conditions and is sensitive to water quality changes.

Taxonomy

Family: Osphronemidae
Genus: Sphaerichthys
Scientific name: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides
Origin: Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra

Habitat

Native to peat swamps and blackwater streams of the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. Inhabits very soft, acidic, tannin-stained water shaded by forest canopy. A maternal mouthbrooder, unusual among gouramis.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 25-30 °C
pH: 4-6.5
GH: 1-4 °dGH
Adult size: 4-6 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Difficulty: advanced

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Ember Tetra, Cherry Shrimp, Kuhli Loach, Otocinclus
Avoid with: Tiger Barb, Betta, Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
Breeding difficulty: advanced