(38) Blue Gourami

The blue gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus) is a large, hardy, and popular freshwater fish, often recommended for beginner aquarists due to its resilience. It is a color variant of the three-spot gourami and is known for its striking coloration and tactile pelvic fins.

• Coloration: They have a long, flattened, and thin body that is typically a silvery-blue color, which can change in intensity based on mood. They have two prominent dark spots, one in the middle of the body and one at the base of the tail, with the eye being the "third spot".
• Size: They can grow to a considerable size for a freshwater aquarium fish, reaching up to 6 inches (15 cm).
• Specialized fins: Their long, hair-like pelvic fins are equipped with touch-sensitive cells that they use to explore their environment.
• Variants: Other color morphs of the same species include the gold gourami and opaline gourami.
• Labyrinth organ: Like other gouramis, they possess a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air, which makes them very hardy. 

• Tank size: A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended for a single blue gourami, while a larger tank of 30+ gallons is necessary for a community setup.
• Water parameters: They are adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, but stability is important.
  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).
  • pH: 6.0–8.8.
• Aquascaping: To provide hiding places and a sense of security, the tank should be densely planted with live plants like Java fern and Vallisneria. They also appreciate floating plants that provide shade.
• Water flow: They prefer slow to moderate water movement, so strong currents should be avoided.
• Lid: A secure lid is recommended, as they can jump out of the aquarium. 

• Omnivorous: Blue gouramis are not picky eaters and will accept a varied diet.
• Recommended foods: High-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex will provide a balanced diet.
• Pest control: They are voracious eaters of hydra, which can be a common pest in home aquariums. 

• Temperament: While generally peaceful, blue gouramis can be territorial and aggressive, especially towards other males or similarly shaped, colorful fish. Some individuals may be shy and skittish.
• Compatible tank mates:
  • Larger, more robust fish of a similar size.
  • Active but not aggressive fish, such as tetras, danios, and scavenger catfish.
• Incompatible tank mates:
  • Other male gouramis.
  • Smaller, more delicate fish like dwarf gouramis or fancy guppies.
  • Fin-nippers. 

• Bubble nest: The male builds a bubble nest at the water's surface to attract a female for spawning.
• Post-spawning: After the eggs are laid, the female should be removed from the breeding tank, as the male may become aggressive while guarding the nest.
• Fry care: The male tends to the eggs until they hatch. The fry require specialized food like infusoria and nauplii in their initial stages.