Moonlight Gourami

Trichopodus microlepis

Easy
📏
Max Size
15cm (6″)
🏠
Min Tank Size
113L
⚗️
pH Range
6 - 7.5
🌡️
Temperature
24-28°C
(79-86°F)
🐟
Temperament
Peaceful

Care Requirements

💧 Water Parameters

pH Level
6 - 7.5
Temperature
24-28°C (79-86°F)

🏠 Tank Setup

Minimum Tank Size
113 Litres (29.9 US Gallons)
Temperament
Peaceful

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous, prefers high-quality flakes/pellets, supplemented with live/frozen foods and vegetable matter.

🐟 Community Compatibility

Peaceful community tank.

⚥ Sexual Dimorphism

Males are generally larger and more vibrant in coloration, with longer fins. Females are smaller and have shorter fins.

🌍 Origin

Southeast Asia

About Moonlight Gourami

Moonlight Gouramis, also known as Moonbeam Gouramis or Trichopodus microlepis, are a peaceful and visually striking freshwater fish species. They are closely related to the more commonly known Blue and Three-Spot Gouramis. Here's some information about Moonlight Gouramis:

Moonlight Gouramis have an elongated and laterally compressed body shape. They can grow up to 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length. Their most distinctive feature is their stunning coloration. They have a silvery-white or light blue body with a metallic sheen, which gives them a moonlit appearance. Their fins are typically transparent or slightly colored.

Moonlight Gouramis are native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in Thailand, Malaysia, and parts of Indonesia. In the wild, they inhabit slow-moving or still waters, such as swamps, marshes, and rice paddies. They prefer warm water temperatures ranging from 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) and appreciate soft to moderately hard water conditions.

Moonlight Gouramis are generally peaceful and can be kept in community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish species. They are known to be relatively shy and may seek shelter in plants or other hiding spots. Like other gouramis, they possess a labyrinth organ, enabling them to breathe atmospheric air. They will occasionally rise to the water's surface to gulp air.

Moonlight Gouramis are relatively hardy and suitable for beginner aquarists. They require a well-maintained aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. Providing plants, driftwood, and floating vegetation will help create a natural environment and make them feel secure. Regular water changes and maintenance of good water quality are important for their well-being.

Moonlight Gouramis are omnivorous and accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish. Supplementing their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia is beneficial. Including some vegetable matter in their diet, such as spirulina-based foods or blanched vegetables, is also recommended.

Moonlight Gouramis are generally peaceful and can coexist with other peaceful community fish. However, it's important to avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species. They are compatible with other peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, and other gourami species.

Breeding Moonlight Gouramis in captivity is possible but may require specific conditions. It typically involves providing warm, soft water, floating plants for bubble nest construction, and ensuring the presence of compatible males and females. The male builds a bubble nest at the water's surface, entices the female to spawn, and guards the nest and fry afterward.

Moonlight Gouramis are admired for their beautiful moonlit appearance and peaceful nature, making them a popular choice for community aquariums. With proper care and suitable tank conditions, they can thrive and provide an elegant touch to your aquatic setup.

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  • ✓ Monitor water parameters for optimal Moonlight Gourami health
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