Mike’s Fish Tank – Dwarf Gourami

This issue we’ll discuss the dwarf gourami. Most dwarf gourami live for about 4 years, but with proper care can live longer. Dwarf gouramis are peaceful fish and do well in most community aquariums. They require a tank of at least 10 gallons. They are usually found swimming on the middle to top regions of the aquaria. This is not a surprise since, like all gouramis, the dwarf is a labyrinth fish. That is, dwarf gouramis can breathe oxygen from the air through their labyrinth organ {like a betta} if necessary. It is important, therefore that the surface of the water be exposed to fresh air. Dwarf gouramis are so docile that they will allow themselves to be bullied to death before fighting back. Despite their shy, and docile nature they are aggressive towards fellow dwarf gourami. Each fish tends to establish a territory, and hiding places are a must. Loud noises often scare them, so the tank should be in a quiet area. Regular water changes are necessary, as this gourami can be susceptible to disease. The dwarf gourami is tolerant of fairly high temperatures. A temp of low 80’s is easily tolerated. The dwarf is an omnivore that prefers both algae-based foods and meaty foods. Feed them a vegetable flake, along with freeze dried blood worms, tubifex, and brine shrimp for a balanced diet.

Breeders have created different color variations, varying the red/blue colouring. The flame red is mostly red with a strip of bright blue at the top. The neon red is mostly a solid orange, the neon or powder blue is a pale sky blue and the rainbow is about a 50/50 mix of red and blue. They are all beautiful and they are all male as the female does not exhibit the colors that the males do.

Pets A Plenty is located in the Blockbuster Video Plaza, Rte 281 Cortland, 753-9213. Open 7 days a week. We now have a website. www.petsaplety.biz. check it out. I post care sheets, coupons, new animal arrivals, contests and more. Any questions, email me at friskyy@hotmail.com

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