Male (left) and Female (right) Pearl Gouramies
Photos © Sean Evans
|
Common name: | Pearl gourami, Lace gourami, Mosaic gourami |
Scientific name: | Trichogaster leeri |
Synonyms: | Trichopodus leeri |
Size: | Up to 5" (12.5cm) |
Origin: | Southeast Asia: penisular Malaysia, Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra |
Tank setup: | Planted tank with gentle circulation and some floating plants and/or tall plants that reach the surface. |
Compatibility: | Normally quite peaceful, but may become territorial with other gouramies or similar fish. |
Temperature: | 23-28oC (73-82oF) |
Water chemistry: | Not critical: soft to medium hard, pH 6.0-7.8, but soft and acidic water preferred. |
Feeding: | Omnivorous, most foods accepted - feed a vaired diet of flake/granular foods plus treat foods such as frozen/live foods occasionally. |
Sexing: | Males have a pointed dorsal fin and extended fin rays on anal fin. Males in breeding colour also show more red on the underside. |
Breeding: | Bubble nest builder. Pairs may become aggressive towards tankmates when spawning. |
Comments: |
In full breeding colour, this fish is very striking and surely amongst the most beautiful of freshwater tropical fish.
|