(39) Pearl gourami

The pearl gourami (Trichopodus leerii), also known as the mosaic or lace gourami, is a popular freshwater fish from Southeast Asia. Prized for its iridescent, pearl-like coloration, this fish is generally peaceful and a great addition to community tanks

• Coloration: The pearl gourami has a brownish-silver body covered in a pattern of small white spots that resemble pearls. A dark, horizontal line runs from its mouth to the base of its tail.
• Size: They are a mid-sized gourami, reaching up to 4.5–5 inches (12–13 cm) in length.
• Sexual dimorphism: Males are more colorful and have a distinct, bright red-orange patch on their throat and breast, especially during breeding. Their dorsal and anal fins are also longer and more pointed than those of females.
• Labyrinth organ: Like other gouramis, they possess a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air from the water's surface. This is why you will often see them near the top of the tank. 

• Tank size: A minimum 30-gallon aquarium is recommended to provide ample space for them to swim and explore.
• Water parameters: They are adaptable but prefer soft, slightly acidic water.
  • Temperature: 77°–82°F (25°–28°C).
  • pH: 6.0–7.5.
  • Water flow: They prefer slow to moderate water movement, so strong currents should be avoided.
• Aquascaping: A densely planted tank with floating plants is ideal, as it replicates their natural, swampy habitat and provides cover. A dark substrate will help accentuate their pearlescent colors. 

• Omnivorous: Pearl gouramis are not picky eaters and will accept a wide variety of foods.
• Varied diet: For optimal health and coloration, offer a mix of high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
• Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily, being careful not to overfeed. 

• Temperament: Pearl gouramis are peaceful, but males can be territorial with each other, especially during breeding.
• Schooling fish: They are social and are happiest in small groups. For multiple males, a larger tank with a ratio of one male to several females is best to diffuse aggression.
• Compatible tank mates:
  • Small, schooling fish like tetras, danios, and rasboras.
  • Peaceful bottom dwellers such as corydoras and kuhli loaches.
• Incompatible tank mates: Avoid keeping them with aggressive, fast-moving fish or any species that may be tempted to nip at their long, delicate fins. 

• Bubble nest: The male builds a bubble nest at the surface among floating plants.
• Spawning: He then courts the female, wrapping his body around her to encourage the release and fertilization of eggs. The male collects the eggs and places them in the nest.
• Parental care: After spawning, the female should be removed, as the male will aggressively guard the nest. He should also be removed once the fry are free-swimming to prevent him from eating them.