Pearl Gourami - Trichopodus leerii : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii) is a highly esteemed and widely favored species renowned for its captivating allure and versatility in aquarium settings. Exhibiting remarkable beauty coupled with robustness, tranquility, and low-maintenance requirements, these fish hold considerable appeal for both novice and seasoned aquarists alike. With their stunning appearance and amiable temperament, Pearl Gouramis effortlessly enhance the aesthetic and ambiance of any aquatic environment, embodying a popular choice among hobbyists seeking an enriching and visually stunning addition to their tanks.
When it comes to tankmates, it is essential to select non-aggressive fish that are similar in size to your Pearl Gouramis. Good options include other Gouramis, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, and bottom-dwelling species such as Corydoras Catfish, Loaches, and Bristlenose Plecos. However, it would be best to avoid very small or aggressive fish as they may not get along with your Pearl Gouramis.
Ensuring the optimal well-being of your Pearl Gouramis necessitates a meticulous recreation of their native habitat within the aquarium. This entails strategically arranging abundant aquatic flora, rocks, driftwood, and bogwood atop a sandy substrate to establish ample hiding spots and expansive swimming areas. It is advisable to refrain from incorporating floating plants, as they may impede the fish's access to oxygen, a critical requirement given the frequent surface-dwelling behavior of Pearl Gouramis, attributable to their labyrinth organ.
Pearl Gouramis have a unique appearance with silvery blue bodies and pearl-like patterns on their bodies and fins. The black line that runs from their head to the tail adds to their beauty, and their large and delicate fins are a sight to behold. When breeding, the males have a bright orange throat, making them even more striking. In conclusion, with their peaceful nature and easy care requirements, they are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
Pearl Gourami Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Pearl Gouramis is a straightforward process. Males are larger and more vibrant in colour, displaying an eye-catching orange hue around the throat area. This colouration becomes even more intense during the mating season as males use it to attract females. Furthermore, males possess elongated fins, and an orange tinge can be observed in their fins, except for the caudal fin. Conversely, females are smaller and less colourful, featuring shorter fins and a rounder abdomen compared to males.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Trichopodus leerii |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1852 |
| Other Names | Lace gourami, Mosaic gourami, Leeri gourami |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Anabantiformes |
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Genus | Trichopodus |
| Origins | Malaysia , Thailand , Indonesia |
| Max Size | 13 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Trios |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Bubble Nester |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 25 |
| KH | 3 - 8 |
| TDS | 50 - 150 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 28 |
The Pearl Gourami has been featured on the following stamps
Featured Species
Natural Habitat
Pearl Gouramis originate from Southeast Asia, specifically Malaysia, Thailand, and the islands of Borneo and Sumatra in Indonesia. In their natural habitat, these gouramis inhabit slow-moving waters found in swamps, stagnant tributaries, lakes, and low rivers. They display a preference for environments abundant in aquatic vegetation and rocky substrate, offering them ample opportunities for feeding, shelter, rest, and concealment.
Regrettably, Pearl Gouramis are currently categorized as near threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Their native habitats face significant threats from activities such as damming, logging, and overfishing, placing their populations at risk. By introducing Pearl Gouramis to your aquarium, you not only showcase their unique beauty but also contribute to conservation efforts aimed at protecting their natural habitats.
Breeding
To successfully breed Pearl Gouramis, it is recommended to set up a separate breeding tank. The tank should contain shallow, mature water with floating plants and gentle filtration. An air-powered sponge filter would be the most suitable filtration option.
To encourage breeding, it is essential to condition the fish with live food. When the female is full of eggs, the male builds a nest of tiny bubbles using plants to bind them together. The female then moves into the nest's vicinity, and the male wraps his body around her tightly. She shakes her body, releasing a few eggs, and the male picks up the eggs and spits them into the bubble nest. This process repeats several times until the female has released all her eggs.
Once the female has run out of eggs, the male will chase her away, and it is advisable to remove her at this point to prevent any harm. The male will then tend to the nest and guard the eggs until they hatch, which usually takes between 20 and 30 hours. After hatching, the fry will be able to swim freely in about 4-5 days, and the male should be removed at this point.
Initially, it is recommended to feed the fry with liquid fry food or infusoria for the first week. After that, they can be fed with crushed flake food, microworm, and baby brine shrimp. It is important to note that the babies take a while to grow, and extra care must be taken when performing water changes, as they can be sensitive to changes in water temperature for the first few months.
Diet & Feeding
Pearl Gouramis thrive on a well-rounded diet consisting of both dried and live or frozen foods, essential for sustaining their optimal health and vibrant coloration. High-quality dried foods such as flakes, granules, pellets, and algae wafers serve as the staple, complemented by live and frozen options like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and blackworms to fulfill their protein needs and offer enrichment.
Intermittent vegetable treats such as blanched spinach or peas can also contribute to their overall nutrition. Care should be taken to avoid overfeeding, as these fish possess voracious appetites. Providing two to three small meals daily is recommended, with any excess food promptly removed to prevent water quality deterioration. Regular observation of their feeding behavior enables adjustments to be made to maintain a thriving aquatic community.
Frequently asked questions
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