[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Gouramis & Relatives – Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys osphromenoides)

This is by far the most famous member of its genus, having first been imported into Europe in 1905. In the late 1970s, a red-finned “Chocolate’ —the Crossband Chocolate Gourami—was described and afforded subspecific status: S. o. selatanensis. At that point, S. osphromenoides became S. o. osphromenoides.

Family

• Belontiidae

Subfamily

• Trichogasterinae (classified as Trichogastrinae by some authors)

Distribution

• S. o. osphromenoides found in Indonesia and Malaysia; 5. o. selatanensis in Borneo.

Size

• Up to 2 1/2in (6cm), but usually smaller.

Behavior

• Retiring and peaceful; must not be kept with boisterous tankmates.

Diet

• Small livefoods, although some deep-frozen/ freeze-dried foods may be accepted; dried formulations may be accepted only reluctantly.

Aquarium

• Well planted tank. Surface vegetation and subdued lighting are important; pH should be maintained within the acid part of the spectrum. Temperature range: 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Breeding

• Challenging in aquaria; female orally incubates the eggs and fry for up to 2 weeks.