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Sparkling Gourami - Trichopsis vittata : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis vittata) is a little gem that will add sparkle and delight to your planted aquarium. These peaceful fish are easy to care for, but require close attention to water quality to maintain their health. In their natural habitat, Sparkling Gouramis inhabit shallow, slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. To replicate this environment, heavily planted tanks with gentle water flow and ample hiding spots are recommended. You will be rewarded with the sight of these shy fish coming out to play and explore. Sparkling Gouramis are true to their name, displaying a dazzling array of colours when they swim. Their arrowhead-shaped bodies and caudal fins shimmer with green, red and blue tones, and their eyes seem to glow a bright blue in the right light. What's more, using a unique pectoral mechanism, these fish can produce a clear croaking sound, adding a fascinating auditory element to your aquarium.Sparkling Gourami Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual dimorphism can be observed in mature Sparkling Gouramis, with males displaying elongated ventral, dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, and a more intense color pattern compared to females. Males also possess red spots on the stripe through their body or over the body line, while females exhibit less prominent, duller spots. However, differentiating between sexes in juveniles can prove to be challenging, as the dimorphism is not apparent until sexual maturity.Quick Facts
Scientific Name | Trichopsis vittata |
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Year Described | 1936 |
Other Names | Pygmy Gourami, Dwarf Croaking Gouramies |
Classification | Actinopterygii |
Order | Anabantiformes |
Family | Osphronemidae |
Genus | Trichopsis |
Origins | Thailand Vietnam Cambodia Laos |
Max Size | 4 cm |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
Shoaling | No |
Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
Diet | Omnivore |
Reproduction | Bubble nest |
Lifespan | 4 - 5 years |
Water Parameters
Water Type | Freshwater |
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PH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
GH | 5 - 19 |
KH | |
TDS |
℉ | 77 - 83 |
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℃ | 25 - 28.3 |