Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Licorice Gourami, also known as the Deissneri Gourami, are endemic to the island of Bangka, Indonesia. Here, they are found in tanin-stained slow-moving waters of swamps and streams among dense vegetation. Licorice gouramis have an overall pale colored body with two thick horizontal dark stripes and shimmering iridescence on the edge of their fins. Mature males will develop longer ventral, anal, dorsal and caudal fins, however most specimens for sale are young fish which make them difficult to confidently sex. Multiple Licorice gouramis can be kept together successfully, though a bigger aquarium is needed and all individuals should be added at the same time. Once males reach sexual maturity, some squabbling over territory could be observed. An adult Licorice gourami can reach a size of approximately 1-1/4″. Note: This species is infrequently available.

Diet Requirements: Licorice gouramis are omnivores. A diet made up of various high quality dried and frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia are ideal. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Some flake or micro pellet foods may be ignored.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 10 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single Licorice gourami. While the Licorice gourami is a small species, even as an adult, this size aquarium at the very least better guarantees stable water parameters, which is important for it to thrive. This gourami should not be added into a biologically immature aquarium, as they are intolerable of nitrite and ammonia. Weekly water changes are needed to keep water parameters in good condition (Nitrates < 20 ppm). The aquarium can be aquascaped with rocks and driftwood to provide ample hiding places. Live vegetation should also be included in the aquascape; floating plants are appreciated if the aquarium lighting is intense/bright. Without sufficient cover throughout the aquarium, this species will be more shy and withdrawn. Water movement should be on the gentler side. A Licorice gourami should not be mixed with other Labyrinth fish, including Bettas and other gourami species. Do not introduce a Licorice gourami into an aquarium that has overly competitive or aggressive tank mates. In such a setting, a Licorice gourami will not thrive because of intimidation. Certain tetras, rasboras, and other nano fish species that will also thrive in their specific water conditions (soft and acidic) are good options. Licorice gouramis have been kept successfully with Neocaridina or Caridina shrimp, but observation at first is still warranted. Recommended water conditions, 76-82° F, KH 0-5, pH 3.5-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.