Pearl Gourami
Trichopodus leerii
(77-82°F)
Care Requirements
💧 Water Parameters
🏠 Tank Setup
🍽️ Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous (flake/pellet food, live/frozen foods).
🐟 Community Compatibility
Small peaceful fish.
⚥ Sexual Dimorphism
Males are larger and more vibrant in color, especially during courtship, while females are smaller and have a rounder abdomen
🌍 Origin
Southeast Asia
About Pearl Gourami
Pearl Gouramis (Trichopodus leerii) are popular freshwater fish known for their beauty and peaceful nature. They are native to Southeast Asia, specifically Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Here's some information about pearl gouramis:
Pearl Gouramis have an elongated, laterally compressed body with beautiful iridescent scales. They get their name from the pearly spots that adorn their body, resembling small pearls. The males are generally more colorful and vibrant, displaying brighter hues and longer fins than females. Females are typically larger and have a rounder belly.
Pearl Gouramis can grow up to 4.5 inches (10.5 cm) in length, with males being slightly smaller than females.
In the wild, pearl gouramis inhabit slow-moving or still waters, such as swamps, ponds, and flooded areas with dense vegetation. They prefer warm water temperatures and appreciate soft to moderately hard water conditions.
Pearl Gouramis are generally peaceful and make excellent community fish. They are best kept in groups of at least three to minimize any aggression among males. They are labyrinth fish, meaning they possess a specialized organ called the labyrinth organ, which enables them to breathe atmospheric air. This adaptation allows them to gulp air from the water's surface.
Pearl Gouramis are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced 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 health.
Pearl Gouramis are omnivorous and accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish. It's beneficial to supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Including some vegetable matter in their diet, such as spirulina-based foods or blanched vegetables, is also beneficial.
Pearl Gouramis are peaceful and can coexist with other peaceful fish species in a community aquarium. However, they may be slightly territorial during breeding or if crowded. They are compatible with other peaceful community fish, such as tetras, rasboras, and other gourami species. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
Breeding pearl gouramis in captivity is possible but requires specific conditions. It involves providing them with 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.
Pearl Gouramis are admired for their elegance and peaceful nature, making them a popular choice for community aquariums. With proper care and suitable tank conditions, they can thrive and provide a beautiful display in your aquatic setup.
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