Our Guide To Keeping Chocolate Gourami Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides
   • Common name: Chocolate Gourami
   • Family: Osphronemidae
   • Origin: Southeast Asia, specifically found in the peat swamp forests of Borneo and Sumatra
   • Adult length: 5 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Chocolate Gouramis require a heavily planted aquarium with dense vegetation and subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat.
   • They prefer soft, acidic water conditions, so adding driftwood and dried leaves (such as Indian almond leaves) can help achieve these conditions.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Chocolate Gouramis thrive in soft, acidic water with a pH range of 4.0 to 6.0.
   • Maintain a water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle water flow is suitable for Chocolate Gouramis, so choose a filter that provides minimal disturbance to the water surface.

5. Diet:

   • Chocolate Gouramis are carnivorous and prefer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
   • Offer them a variety of high-quality flake or pellet food as well to ensure a balanced diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Chocolate Gouramis are peaceful fish and should be kept with similarly sized, peaceful tank mates.
   • They can be kept in a species-only tank or with other small, peaceful fish species such as small rasboras, tetras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Chocolate Gouramis are shy and peaceful fish that prefer a calm environment.
   • They may become stressed if housed with aggressive or boisterous tank mates, so choose tank mates carefully.