Neon Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius var. neon) Care Guide
A selectively bred color variant of the Dwarf Gourami with intensified electric blue and red-orange striped coloration.
Compiled by Aquairi from published sources · Published · Updated
Overview
Trichogaster lalius var. neon is a species in the family Osphronemidae. A selectively bred color variant of the Dwarf Gourami with intensified electric blue and red-orange striped coloration. Males are especially vibrant with brilliant iridescent blue body and bold red stripes. Like the standard form, it is a labyrinth fish that breathes atmospheric air. Susceptible to Dwarf Gourami Disease (iridovirus), so source from reputable breeders.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Trichogaster
- Scientific name: Trichogaster lalius var. neon
- Other names: Neon Blue Dwarf Gourami, Rainbow Dwarf Gourami
- Origin: Captive-Bred
Habitat
A selectively bred high-colour form of the dwarf gourami (Trichogaster lalius), which is native to slow and standing waters of South Asia in the Ganges, Brahmaputra and adjacent basins. The wild species is a bubble-nesting labyrinth fish of vegetated lowland habitats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 4-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Adult size: 5-7 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Difficulty: beginner
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: top
- Compatible tank mates: Small Tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, Otocinclus
- Avoid with: Other Male Gouramis, Fin Nippers, Aggressive Fish, Bettas
Breeding
- Breeding difficulty: intermediate
Neon Dwarf Gourami Breeding Guide
Overview
The neon dwarf gourami is a selectively bred colour form of the dwarf gourami, Trichogaster lalius, a labyrinth fish from Pakistan, northern India and Bangladesh. Males grow to around 8.8 cm and females are smaller. It is a bubble-nesting anabantoid, and breeding follows the same pattern as the standard form.
Sexing
Males are a little larger and much more colourful than the plainer, silvery females, and develop extended dorsal and anal fins. In the neon form the male shows intensified iridescent blue and red coloration.
Breeding Setup
A breeding tank of about 18-24 inches with the water level lowered to roughly 6-8 inches works well. Raise the temperature to about 80-84 °F (27-29 °C) and fit a tight cover, since the warm, humid layer of air above the water is needed for the fry's labyrinth organ to develop. Suitable maintenance parameters are 22-27 °C, pH 6.0-7.5 and 2-18 dH.
Spawning Behavior & Trigger
The male builds a raft of bubbles at the surface, incorporating plant material to strengthen it. The female becomes dominant in courtship, nudging the male beneath the nest and caressing his ventral area with her pelvic 'feelers'. Spawning then takes place in the typical anabantoid embrace, the male wrapping around the female as eggs and milt are released together; broods can number up to 700 eggs, most of which float up into the nest while the male collects any strays.
Egg & Fry Care
The female should be removed after spawning, as the male becomes aggressive toward her and guards the brood. Eggs hatch within about 36 hours. Once free-swimming, the fry require infusoria-type foods at first, progressing to microworm or Artemia nauplii as they grow.