[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Gouramis & Relatives – False Chocolate Gourami (Parasphaerichthys ocellatus)

Although described as long ago as 1929, the False Chocolate Gourami remains one of the rarely seen species. It is a somewhat more elongate fish than Sphaehchthys osphromenoides (Chocolate Gourami) with a rounded tail. Exacting in its demands, it is undoubtedly one for the specialist and best avoided by new aquarists.

Family

• Belontndae

Subfamily

• Tnchogasterinae (classified as Trichogastnnae by some authors)

Distribution

• Mountain streams in northern Myanmar.

Size

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

Behavior

• Shy, retiring; can be kept only with quiet 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. Soft, slightly acid to neutral water preferred. Temperature range: 72-77’F (22-25 C).

Breeding

• No documented accounts available; may be a mouthbrooder like Sphaehchthys (see following entries).