While not spectacularly colored, the brown shades and patterns of the Snakeskin Gourami, suffused overall with a delicate purplish sheen, make it a very attractive fish. It is much loved by the anabantoid enthusiasts that have kept and bred it.
Family
- Belontiidae
Subfamily
- Trichogasterinae (classified as Trichogastrinae by some authors)
Distribution
- Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand, but also introduced elsewhere in Southeast Asia and other regions, including Sri Lanka and Haiti.
Size
- Up to 8in (20cm).
Behavior
- Very peaceful despite its size. Diet: Most foods accepted.
Aquarium
- Large, covered, well planted, with some surface vegetation and an open central area. Subdued illumination recommended. Water chemistry not critical. Temperature range: 73-82°F (23-28°C).
Breeding
- Bubble nest (which can be fairly small) may be built at water surface by male. The eggs and newly hatched fry are also guarded by male. Hatching takes about 1 day.
