(40) Dwarf gourami

The dwarf gourami (Trichogaster lalius, formerly Colisa lalia) is a small, colorful freshwater fish native to South Asia. They are popular in the aquarium trade due to their vibrant colors, relatively peaceful nature, and modest size

• Size: They typically grow to about 2 to 3 inches in length, making them suitable for smaller aquariums.
• Coloration: Males display brilliant, iridescent coloration, often featuring diagonal stripes of red and blue. Females are typically duller and have a more muted silvery-gray or brownish color.
• Variants: Selective breeding has produced a number of popular color variants, including the Powder Blue, Flame Red (or Fire Red), and Neon Blue.
• Labyrinth Organ: Like their relative the betta fish, dwarf gouramis possess a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air from the water's surface. 

• Tank size: A minimum 10-gallon aquarium is suitable for a single male, but a 15- to 20-gallon tank is ideal for a pair or community setup.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.5.
  • Hardness: They prefer soft to moderately hard water.
• Aquascaping: To mimic their natural habitat, a densely planted tank is recommended. Floating plants are especially beneficial, as they provide cover and help dim the light.
• Water flow: A gentle water current is preferred, as they are native to slow-moving waters.
• Access to surface: Because of their labyrinth organ, they require easy access to the water's surface to breathe. 

• Omnivorous: In the wild, dwarf gouramis eat small insects, larvae, and algae. In the aquarium, they thrive on a varied diet.
• Recommended foods: High-quality flake or micro pellet food, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Feeding habits: They will forage at all levels of the tank, from the surface to the bottom. 

• Temperament: Dwarf gouramis are generally peaceful and shy. However, males can be territorial with other males and sometimes with other brightly colored, similarly shaped fish.
• Compatible tank mates: Small, peaceful, and non-aggressive fish are the best companions.
  • Tetras (e.g., Neon, Cardinal)
  • Corydoras catfish
  • Rasboras
  • Livebearers like platies or mollies
• Social structure: It is best to keep only one male per tank unless the aquarium is very large. A pair (one male and one female) or a trio (one male and two females) is recommended.
• Incompatible tank mates: Avoid larger, more aggressive fish and fin-nippers like some barbs. 

• Bubble nest: During breeding, the male will build an intricate bubble nest at the water's surface, often incorporating bits of floating plants.
• Spawning: The male courts the female, who then releases eggs under the nest.
• Parental care: The male guards the eggs and fry, and the female should be removed after spawning to prevent aggression.