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.
Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii)
Description:
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Appearance:
- Body: Oval and laterally compressed with a slightly elongated shape.
- Color: Males are known for their iridescent, pearly white or silver body with a reddish or orange tint on the fins. Females are generally less colorful and more subdued in color.
- Size: Typically grows to about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) in length.
- Distinctive Feature: The body is adorned with a pearly or shimmering pattern that gives the fish its name. Males also have a distinctive reddish or orange spot on the base of the pectoral fins.
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Behavior:
- Activity: Generally peaceful and calm. They are slow-moving and tend to spend time in the middle to upper levels of the tank.
- Social Structure: Best kept in small groups. Males can be territorial but are usually not aggressive if given enough space.
Care Requirements:
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Tank Size:
- Minimum: 20 gallons (76 liters) for a small group. A larger tank is recommended to provide ample space and reduce territorial disputes.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C). They thrive in a warm, stable environment.
- pH: 6.0-7.5. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They generally prefer softer water but can adapt to various hardness levels.
- Filtration: Moderate filtration is suitable. They do not like strong currents, so choose a filter that provides gentle water movement.
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Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand. Ensure the substrate is not too rough to avoid injuring their delicate fins.
- Aquascaping: Provide plenty of hiding spots and cover using live plants, driftwood, and rocks. They appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of shaded areas.
- Lighting: Low to moderate lighting is preferred. Provide a regular light/dark cycle to mimic natural conditions.
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Diet:
- Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed high-quality flakes or pellets designed for tropical fish.
- Supplemental Food: Offer occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. A varied diet promotes health and vibrancy.
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Behavioral Considerations:
- Compatibility: Best kept with other peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or overly large species that may stress them. Suitable tank mates include other small, non-aggressive fish.
- Social Behavior: They do well in small groups and appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress and territorial disputes.
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Tank Maintenance:
- Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are important to maintain water quality and manage waste.
- Cleaning: Clean the tank regularly by removing uneaten food and waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning efficiently and does not create strong currents.
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Health Care:
- Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
- Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if health issues arise. Common problems include fin rot and fungal infections. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential.