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Maximum size : 15 cm
Moonlight Gourami - Trichopodus microlepis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Moonlight Gourami is a hardy aquarium fish for both beginners and experienced fish keepers. This fish has a nervous nature when first introduced into a new setting but once settled these fish are active. They can adapt and thrive under a broad range of water conditions as long as they are provided with plenty of vegetation and hiding spots. Apart from tiny fish, these Gouramis can be mixed with significantly smaller or quiet and peaceful larger fish, making them an excellent addition to most community aquariums. Like other Labyrinth fish, the Moonlight Gourami has a unique lung-like organ that permits it to inhale air straightforwardly. As a result of this organ, it isn't surprising to see it go to the surface and swallow air. The ability to inhale air permits this Gourami to get by in low oxygen circumstances. Indeed, if it stays clammy, it can make do out of water for as long as a few hours. The Moonlight Gouramis are silvery coloured with a slightly greenish tone similar to the soft glow of moonlight. They are flat and long and have concavely sloped heads that differentiate it from other Gourami species. The males can be recognised by the rosy orange tinge of the pelvic balances, just as the long dorsal blades which close in a point. In females, the pelvic fins are colourless to yellow, and the dorsal fins are shorter and rounder.\r\nMoonlight Gourami Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
It is straightforward to differentiate the male from female Moonlight Gourami. Females are more extensive than males and have a more rounded anal and dorsal fin. Males can be distinguished by the orange-red hue of the pelvic fins, and the long dorsal fins that end in a point. In contrast, the female's pelvic fins are a pale to yellow colour, and the dorsal fins are shorter and rounder. During spawning, males ventral fins change to an orange-red.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Trichopodus microlepis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1861 |
| Other Names | Moonbeam Gourami |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Anabantiformes |
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Genus | Trichopodus |
| Origins | Cambodia Vietnam Thailand |
| Max Size | 15 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Bubble nest |
| Lifespan | up to 4 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 25 |
| KH | |
| TDS |
| ℉ | 77 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 25 - 30 |
