Care Level: Advanced*

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Chocolate Gourami is an iconic freshwater species due to their attractive appearance and charming demeanor. Native to peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo, the Chocolate gourami can be found in both blackwater streams and clear water habitats. These blackwater environments can have pH levels as low, or acidic, as 3.0 and the dense canopy above means that there is little light that penetrates the water’s surface. The clear water environments are similar in water chemistry, but here there is abundant aquatic vegetation growing such as Cryptocoryne plants. Chocolate gouramis have an overall velvety brown appearance, with a few beige vertical stripes and a broad tail. Discerning sex of this species comes down to subtle differences in head and jaw shape; relying on brighter coloration or fin structure (i.e., pointedness) are not reliable characters for Chocolate gouramis. Gouramis are Labyrinth fish, which means that they can directly breathe from the surface. Unlike some gouramis, the Chocolate gourami does prefer to be kept in the company of its own kind. We suggest having no fewer than 5 individuals. An adult Chocolate gourami can reach a size of approximately 2″.

Diet Requirements: Chocolate gouramis are omnivores. A diet made up of various high quality frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, microworms and daphnia are a must. This species can be a bit finicky about accepting dried foods such as flakes or pellets. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 20 gallon aquarium is ideal for a small group of Chocolate gouramis. These gouramis 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 pristine for Chocolate gouramis (Nitrates < 10 ppm). The aquarium can be aquascaped with rocks and driftwood to provide ample hiding places and the tanin stained water this species likes. Vegetation (preferably live) should also be included in the aquascape. Chocolate gouramis would also benefit from some floating plants to provide areas of shade. Without sufficient cover, this species will not thrive. Water movement should be on the gentler side. Use caution when adding other Labyrinth fish, including Bettas, in with gouramis. Chocolate gouramis should be the only gourami species in the aquarium. Do not introduce Chocolate gouramis into an aquarium that has overly competitive or aggressive tank mates. In such a setting, Chocolate gouramis will be intimidated and withdrawn. Certain Tetras, rasboras, and other nano fish species are all good options. Recommended water conditions, 74-82° F, KH 0-4 (wild) / 0-10 (aquaculture), pH 4.0-6.5. Note: The asterisk (*) for Care Level at the top is due to the substantial differences in care between Chocolate gouramis that are bred in aquaculture versus wild-imported specimens. Wild specimens require low pH and soft water (Advanced) that is typically acheived only by using reverse osmosis (RO) water, while aquacultured specimens are slightly more adaptable to water parameters (Moderate).

Purchase Size: Medium: 1-1/4” to 1-1/2”

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