Breeding Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys Osphromenoides) In The Aquarium

Location

This freshwater fish lives in small reservoirs in Malaysia, Indonesia, Borneo and Sumatra.

Body description

This species has extra auxiliary respiratory organ known as the labyrinth organ. This organ allows fish to breathe atmospheric air, so they can live in an oxygen-poor water. Body of the fish is laterally compressed. Colour of the body is chocolate with olive or red elements. This color depends on fish condition, their diet and water quality. There is around six transverse, yellowish and irregular stripes intersecting the sides of the fish. The dorsal and anal fins are long. Male has fins with opalescent, light border.

Temperament and behaviour

This species is shy and generally peaceful and swims with distinction around the aquarium. It prefers to live in a group. This fish is very sensitive to water conditions (nitrites, fluctuations chemical parameters of water), parasites, fungus, bacteria, diseases. Sometimes these fish are kept in aquarium to check water conditions. They react to water pollution earlier than other fish. They lose colors, become apathetic and they dwindle fins. This species is recommended for the experienced aquarists.

Aquarium decoration

This fish should be kept in chemically stable water. The aquarium should include a lot of plants, floating plants, hiding-places, dimmed light, effective but gentle filtration system. Air over the water surface should have similar temperature to the water temperature. A small partial water exchange should be done regularly.

Breeding

This is an oviparous species but breeding this fish is not an easy task. Female takes the initiative but when the male will not accept her, the spawning will not start. Female lays up to 80 the eggs and male immediately fertilizes them. Female collects the eggs in her mouth. The eggs hatch after 8-14 days. Male takes care and protect territory. The fry starts feeding immediately. The fry is very sensitive and they grow very slowly.