Moonlight Gourami - Trichopodus microlepis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Moonlight Gourami (Trichopodus microlepisis) is a species of freshwater labyrinth fish revered for its elegant appearance and tranquil demeanor. Native to Southeast Asia, this species belongs to the family Osphronemidae. Renowned for its distinctive iridescent scales that shimmer like moonlight, the Moonlight Gourami is a popular choice among aquarists seeking a visually captivating centerpiece for their aquariums. With its peaceful temperament and relatively undemanding care requirements, Trichopodus microlepis is well-suited for community tanks, adding both beauty and harmony to aquatic environments. Its characteristic behavior and striking aesthetics make it a cherished addition to hobbyist collections worldwide.
Moonlight Gouramis exhibit compatibility with other species displaying similar peaceful behaviors, although they can be adversely affected by the aggression of more territorial fish. As they mature, male Moonlight Gouramis may exhibit territorial tendencies, particularly after breeding. Optimal tank mates for Moonlight Gouramis include calm tropical fish of medium size such as freshwater Angelfish, Corydoras, and Amano Shrimp. However, caution is advised when cohabitating with fin-nipping species that could harm their delicate fins, such as Tiger Barbs or Siamese Fighting Fish.
Additionally, it's advisable to avoid introducing very small fish to the tank, as they may become targets, particularly during the Moonlight Gouramis' juvenile stage. Despite their potential for substantial size, barring exceptional cases, Moonlight Gouramis typically exhibit excellent compatibility within community settings. Whether housed individually, in pairs, or in groups, provided the aquarium offers sufficient space, they thrive in various social arrangements. When maintained in groups, ample hiding spots are essential to mitigate any instances of bullying among individuals.
Moonlight Gouramis necessitates ample space within the aquarium to ensure their comfort and well-being, thereby warranting consideration of larger tank sizes when integrating them into an aquatic community. Maintaining freshwater conditions akin to their native Southeast Asian rivers is imperative, with water temperatures ideally maintained between 77°F and 86°F. These fish are adaptable to various substrates. Given their adult size of up to 6 inches, Moonlight Gouramis necessitate expansiveness for unhindered movement, thus suggesting a minimum tank size of 90-115 litres, though a more optimal range falls between 140 and 180 litres to promote a sense of security and contentment.
Insufficient space may induce stress and compromise their health. Incorporating a diverse array of tropical plants, including floating varieties, is recommended, although precautions should be taken with delicate foliage, as Moonlight Gouramis have a propensity for nibbling. Thick-leaved plants such as Java fern offer a resilient alternative, also serving as effective hideouts. A gentle filtration system is preferred over a forceful water pump to prevent undue agitation and exhaustion among the fish.
The Moonlight Gourami, renowned for its striking appearance, boasts a distinctive silver hue that may evolve into a more intricate green, iridescent tone as it matures. Typically characterized by a prolonged, flat body and a discernible head with a slight concave curvature, this species exudes elegance. Delicate and nearly transparent, its fins complement the overall coloration of the fish, exhibiting iridescence. As male Moonlight Gouramis mature, they often develop vibrant red or orange hues on their elongated pelvic fins, a contrast to the colorless or yellowish tones observed in females. Furthermore, males typically exhibit longer dorsal fins compared to their female counterparts.
Moonlight Gourami Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Moonlight Gouramis is relatively straightforward. Females typically exhibit a larger body size and possess rounded anal and dorsal fins. In contrast, males can be identified by their orange-red pelvic fins and elongated dorsal fins terminating in a point. Female pelvic fins tend to be paler or yellowish, and their dorsal fins are shorter and more rounded. Notably, during spawning, male ventral fins undergo a noticeable transformation, adopting an orange-red hue.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Trichopodus microlepis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1861 |
| Other Names | Moonbeam Gourami |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| 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 & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Bubble Nester |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 6 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 25 |
| ℉ | 71 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
The Moonlight Gourami is indigenous to the tropical regions of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, flourishing in shallow, tranquil, or slowly moving waters abundant in vegetation, including swamps, ponds, bogs, and lakes. They also inhabit the floodplains of the Mekong River, where they have adeptly adapted to the distinctive and dynamic conditions of this formidable watercourse.
Noteworthy is the species' remarkable adaptability, contributing to its widespread popularity for captive breeding initiatives across various global regions. However, this success in captivity has inadvertently facilitated their introduction as invasive species in locations such as Colombia and Singapore, where they have established themselves as integral components of the local ecosystems.
Breeding
The Moonlight Gourami constructs a bubble nest as do most Labyrinth fish. Reproducing of this fish is both fascinating and straightforward. Provide a different rearing tank, as other fish will think about these eggs and fry as a delectable bite. The ideal reproducing tank has delicate water that has been diminished to a profundity of around six inches. The pH ought to be somewhat acidic, and the temperature ought to be raised to 80 Fahrenheit over a few days to trigger spawning. Use a dark substrate and provide a lot of floating plants so a bubble nest can be built.
Feeding the breeding couple live foods before endeavouring to breed them will increase your chances of success. The male starts the bringing forth measure by cautiously setting up an air pocket home. He, at that point, begins to court the female under it. This romantic move is an exciting showcase that ought not to be missed. Spawning finishes with the male folding itself over the female. While in this grasp, the male turns the female onto her back, which triggers her to release the eggs.
Anything Up to 2000 eggs may be laid during the spawning process. The male will fertilise these as they glide up to the nest; in the security of the bubble nest, the eggs brood for a few days before incubating. When the eggs have hatched, the tiny fry must be fed infusoria nourishment a few times day by day.
Most misfortunes of fry are because of an absence of adequate food or too low water temperature. Live nourishments like daphnia, artemia, and rotifers, are ideal. Be that as it may, finely cleaved lettuce, banana skins, and finely ground pieces of food can be utilised to take care of the young and are typically simpler to discover. Keep the water temperature low while the fry is developing.
Diet & Feeding
Frequently asked questions
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