Description
All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.
When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.
ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra
The Liquorice Gourami (Parosphromenus linkei) is an enchanting and elegant fish that brings a burst of color and charm to any aquarium! These small, peaceful beauties are known for their stunning, iridescent hues that shimmer like liquid jewels in the light. They are named after the dark, almost black-brown coloration of their bodies, which, when paired with their vibrant fins, create a striking "liquorice" effect. A true gem for aquarists who want to add a touch of refinement to their tank.
Care and Maintenance:
- Tank Size: A 20-gallon (75 liters) tank is perfect for a small group of Liquorice Gouramis, although they can thrive in a slightly smaller setup as long as there's plenty of space to swim and hide.
- Water Parameters: These gouramis are native to Southeast Asia's slow-moving streams, so they prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Temperature should be kept between 74-80°F (23-27°C). They are very sensitive to water quality, so regular water changes (at least 25% every week) are essential for their well-being.
- Filtration: A gentle filter is key. These fish prefer calm waters with little to no current, so avoid strong, high-flow filters. An air stone or sponge filter works wonderfully to maintain water quality while keeping things serene.
- Tank Setup: Create a soft, dimly lit environment with plenty of plants (floating plants work great!) and hiding spots. Driftwood, leaf litter, and dense vegetation mimic their natural habitat and help them feel secure. Since they are shy and delicate, they appreciate a well-planted, peaceful environment where they can explore and hide.
Diet:
Liquorice Gouramis are primarily insectivores in the wild, feeding on tiny invertebrates. In the aquarium, they thrive on a diet of high-quality micro pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, baby brine shrimp, and micro worms. It's important to feed them small portions at a time, as their mouths are small and they don’t compete well for food with larger tank mates.
Tank Mates:
Liquorice Gouramis are peaceful and do best in a calm community setting with other small, non-aggressive fish. Avoid keeping them with larger or more boisterous species, as they can become stressed. Best companions include other small tetras, rasboras, or peaceful catfish like Corydoras. They do well in a group of their own species too—keeping them in pairs or small groups will encourage natural behavior and bring out their full beauty.
Behavior and Personality:
These fish are shy and reserved by nature, so don't expect them to be the first to greet you at the tank! But with time, they can become more accustomed to their surroundings. Watching them interact in their peaceful little world is a real treat; they’re often seen swimming delicately among plants or hovering near the bottom of the tank. Their courtship displays, where males display their colorful fins to attract females, are particularly captivating!
Fun Fact:
Despite their delicate appearance, Liquorice Gouramis are actually fairly hardy once they’re settled in their environment. Their stunning coloration really stands out in well-maintained tanks, especially under dim lighting, where they shimmer and glow in a mesmerizing way.
So, if you’re looking for a peaceful, eye-catching addition to your aquarium, the Liquorice Gourami is definitely a fish worth considering. With a little extra care to their water conditions and a bit of patience, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of nature’s beauty right in your own tank!