Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii) Care Guide

Named for its distinctive lip-locking behavior between individuals, which is actually a form of sparring rather than affection. Can grow quite large at 25+ cm.

Overview

Helostoma temminckii is a species in the family Helostomatidae. Named for its distinctive lip-locking behavior between individuals, which is actually a form of sparring rather than affection. Can grow quite large at 25+ cm. Available in pink and green color forms. An efficient algae grazer that uses its specialized lips to rasp surfaces.

Taxonomy

Family: Helostomatidae
Genus: Helostoma
Scientific name: Helostoma temminckii
Other names: Kisser Fish
Origin: Southeast Asia, Thailand, Java

Habitat

Native to Thailand and the Malay Archipelago, with introduced populations across Southeast Asia. Inhabits slow and standing waters with dense vegetation. The "kissing" behaviour is a mutual mouth-pushing display; the species filter-feeds and grazes algae and microorganisms. The sole member of the family Helostomatidae.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 250 L
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 6-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 15-30 cm
Lifespan: 5-7 years
Difficulty: intermediate

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: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Large Barbs, Bristlenose Pleco, Large Catfish
Avoid with: Small Fish, Delicate Plants, Slow Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: advanced