Licorice Gourami (Parosphromenus deissneri)
Licorice Gouramis, Parosphromenus deissneri, is a unique, beautiful small labyrinth fish that is very shy and peaceful and should be kept with there own species or fish of similar size that shares a mild temperament. This species is quite rare and very hard to get hold of.
In addition to their black and silvery-grey stripes, Licorice Gouramis have electric blue oval-shaped markings along their dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. These fins are also edged with a whiteish-blue colour. In addition, the pelvic fins are opalescent blueish-green with a whiteish-blue filamentous tip, while the pectoral fins are transparent.
Photos
Quick Facts | |
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Scientific Name | Parosphromenus deissneri |
Year Described | 1859 |
Other Names | None |
Classification | Actinopterygii |
Order | Anabantiformes |
Family | Osphronemidae |
Genus | Parosphromenus |
Origins | Indonesia |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
Difficulty | Intermediate |
Shoaling | No |
Best kept as | Pairs |
Diet | Omnivore |
Reproduction | Bubble nest |
Lifespan | up to 10 years |
Water Parameters | |
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Water Type | Freshwater |
PH | 3.5 - 6.5 |
GH | 2 - 10 |
Temperature | |
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71 - 82℉ 21.7 - 27.8℃ |
Feeding
In the home aquarium, the Licorice Gourami will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.
Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.
It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.
This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.
Tank Mates
1 interesting tank mate ideas for the Licorice Gourami could include:
Sexual Dimorphism
It is quite difficult to sex these fish on most occasions as both males and females are capable of rapidly changing colour depending on mood and become significantly darker when aggressive. However, males have more intense and vibrant colours than females, whereas females are slightly smaller and less colourful than males.