Sparkling Gourami care guide
Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis pumila) — minimum tank 30 L, temperature 24-28 °C, pH 6-7.5. Peaceful middle-water species.
Overview
The Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis pumila) is one of the smallest labyrinth fishes, rarely exceeding 4 cm. Iridescent spots scatter light across its body and males produce audible croaking sounds via specialised pectoral musculature during courtship and territorial disputes.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Trichopsis
- Scientific name: Trichopsis pumila
- Common synonyms: Pygmy Gourami
Habitat
Native to slow-moving waters of Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and parts of Malaysia and Indonesia, including rice paddies, ditches and small ponds with dense surface vegetation. The labyrinth organ allows it to tolerate the low oxygen conditions of such habitats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 30 L (7.9 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-4 cm
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Water flow: none
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
Diet
An omnivore feeding on zooplankton and small aquatic insects in the wild. In aquaria a varied diet of micro-pellets, finely crushed flake and small live or frozen foods (cyclops, daphnia, microworms) supports condition.
Compatibility
A peaceful nano species. Suitable companions include Ember Tetra, Chili Rasbora, Pygmy Corydoras and dwarf shrimp. Avoid keeping with Betta, Tiger Barb or any larger boisterous fish, which will dominate feeding and intimidate the species.
Breeding
A bubble-nester; some males build nests under floating plants while others may nest on the substrate. Eggs hatch in one to two days. Fry require microscopic infusoria before graduating to newly hatched brine shrimp.