Approx Max Length : 3cm

Fire Red Licorice Gourami - Parosphromenus sumatranus Fish Profile & Care Guide

The Fire Red Licorice Gourami (Parosphromenus sumatranus) is a striking and highly sought-after species that brings beauty and intrigue to a freshwater aquarium. Distinguished by its vivid red hues, an apparent black spot at the base of the dorsal fin, and delicate black pelvic fin filaments, this fish exudes elegance. Its captivating appearance and fascinating behaviours make it a prized addition for aquarists who appreciate rare and vibrant species. With its refined presence, this Gourami enhances any aquascape, creating a visually stunning and sophisticated underwater display. The Fire Red Licorice Gourami requires meticulous care to thrive and exhibit its natural behaviours.

The Fire Red Licorice Gourami species exhibits specific social behaviours and requires carefully selected tankmates to thrive in aquariums. While not typically known for shoaling behaviour, these fish are best maintained in pairs or small groups. This arrangement allows them to exhibit natural behaviours and reduces stress.

When considering tankmates for Fire Red Licorice Gouramis, it is essential to choose small, peaceful species that thrive under soft, acidic conditions similar to those preferred by these Gouramis. Suitable companions include shoals of small cyprinids such as the Boraras species, Eirmotus octozona, Kuhli loaches, the Sundadanio species, or the Trigonostigma species. These species share compatible water parameter requirements and exhibit non-aggressive behaviours, making them ideal cohabitants. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species that may stress or harm the Fire Red Licorice Gourami.

A minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended for housing a small group of Fire Red Licorice Gouramis, ensuring they have adequate space to thrive. A soft sand or smooth gravel substrate is ideal, providing a comfortable environment that protects their delicate fins. To replicate their natural habitat and promote security, the aquarium should be well-decorated with dense aquatic vegetation, driftwood, and leaf litter, creating shaded areas and hiding spots. Floating plants are also beneficial, helping to diffuse light and maintain the subdued conditions preferred by this species.

A gentle filtration system is necessary to maintain optimal water quality and oxygenation for Fire Red Licorice Gouramis. A sponge filter or other low-flow filtration methods are recommended to prevent strong currents, as this species thrives in calm waters. Ensuring moderate water movement will help sustain a well-oxygenated environment while preserving the tranquil conditions these fish prefer. Consistent water changes are crucial for maintaining water quality, preventing the accumulation of waste, and ensuring a healthy environment for fish.

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Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

The Fire Red Licorice Gourami exhibits notable sexual dimorphism, allowing for differentiation between males and females. Males are distinguished by their vibrant colouration, particularly during the breeding season. Furthermore, males exhibit a distinct black marking at the rear base of the dorsal fin, along with elongated black pelvic fin filaments. In contrast, females are generally less colourful, lacking the pronounced fin markings observed in males, and may exhibit a more subdued beige colouration, especially during nuptial periods. Both sexes can rapidly change colour based on mood or environmental conditions, becoming significantly darker when displaying aggression.

Male Female

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Parosphromenus sumatranus
Year Described	1955
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Anabantiformes
Family	Osphronemidae
Genus	Parosphromenus
Origins	Indonesia
Approx Max Size	3 cm
Temperament	Peaceful
Aquarium Level	Middle - Top
Difficulty	Intermediate
Shoaling	NA
Best kept as	Pairs
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Bubble Nester
Average Lifespan	Up to 5 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	5.5 - 7.0
GH	2 - 6

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	77 - 82
℃	25 - 28

Natural Habitat

The Fire Red Licorice Gourami is native to Sumatra, Indonesia's freshwater peat swamp forests. These habitats are characterized by soft, acidic, and tannin-rich waters, typically in lowland regions with dense vegetation. The species thrives in slow-moving or stagnant waters, such as blackwater streams and pools, where the substrate is often composed of leaf litter and organic debris. This environment provides ample cover and breeding sites, essential for their survival and reproduction. ?

The fire Red Licorice Gourami distribution is restricted to specific areas within Sumatra. However, the exact range and population status remain uncertain due to limited comprehensive field studies. Habitat degradation, primarily from deforestation, agricultural expansion, and peatland drainage, poses significant threats to their natural environments. Therefore, it's crucial to emphasize the need for conservation measures to preserve their habitats and ensure the long-term survival of this species.

Breeding

The Fire Red Licorice Gourami exhibits intricate breeding behaviours that are both fascinating and complex. During the breeding season, males select secluded areas within the aquarium, such as caves or dense vegetation, to construct rudimentary bubble nests attached to the undersides of leaves or within crevices. They then display intensified colouration and elaborate courtship displays to attract females to their chosen nesting sites.

Once a receptive female enters the nest, the pair engages in a series of embraces, during which eggs and sperm are simultaneously released. Both parents meticulously attach the adhesive eggs to the ceiling of the nest. A single spawning event can yield 10 to 15 eggs, repeating until the clutch comprises approximately 40 to 100 eggs. After spawning, the male assumes sole responsibility for guarding and tending to the nest, often becoming territorial and protective during this period. ?

The incubation period for the eggs is relatively brief, typically ranging from 24 to 72 hours, depending on water temperature and conditions. Following hatching, the larvae remain within the nest for 5 to 7 days until they become free-swimming. At this stage, it is crucial to provide infusoria or other suitable micro foods to support the growth and development of the fry. Maintaining optimal water quality with stable parameters is not just important; it's essential throughout the breeding and rearing process to ensure the health and survival of both the offspring and the adult fish.

Diet & Feeding

The Fire Red Licorice Gourami exhibits specialized feeding habits that are crucial to understand for proper care. These fish primarily consume small invertebrates in their natural habitat, including insect larvae and tiny crustaceans. They often prefer live foods such as bloodworms, white mosquito larvae, and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp in captivity. They may be reluctant to accept dried foods, so providing a diet rich in live or frozen options is essential to ensure their health and well-being. Offering a variety of appropriately sized live prey items meets their nutritional needs and stimulates natural foraging behaviours, contributing to their overall vitality in an aquarium setting.?