| Sep 13, 2017
Sparkling Gourami's!
This species, Trichopsis pumila, can also be called the Pygmy Gourami or the Dwarf Croaking Gourami. It may reach up to 1 1/2 inches in length, and is the smallest species in the labyrinth family.
The Sparkling Gourami can have many variations of sparkling iridescent reds, blues, and greens which reflect a rainbow of colors when it moves, and its eyes can appear bright blue in certain lighting. Sometimes its colors and stripe can change or even disappear and reappear depending on its condition and mood!
Native to the rice patties of Thailand, it can be naturally found in slow-moving waters such as rivers, swamps, and small ponds with a dense cover of plants. It thrives rather well in environments with diminished oxygen due to its labyrinth organ, which allows it to breathe air directly from the surface of the water. The Sparkling Gourami is a tiny diamond-in-the-rough of the fish world so to speak!
The reason some call it the "Dwarf Croaking Gourami" is because it can actually create "croaking" sounds that you can hear with the human ear, utilizing its specialized pectoral mechanism. The unique family in which this species is classified uses their pectoral-fin tendons, muscles, and anterior fin rays to create these noises in a similar fashion as plucking strings on a guitar!
These fish are hardy and tolerant of less than ideal conditions as long as there are no strong currents, aggressive tank-mates, and as long as there are plenty of hiding places for this docile species. It prefers heavily planted aquariums with room enough above the plants to sip some air from the surface of the water.
This petite, peaceful species can be kept in pairs or small groups of similar fish, but preferably not with any large or aggressive fish that may try to bully them. For the best coloration and condition try using dark substrates/gravel or special lighting, and be sure to include both plant-based and meat-based foods in its diet. Keep a lid on your tank with these little guys, too, as they can be fantastic jumpers!
Right now until October 9th, you can get your very own Sparkling Gourami's for only $1.99 each at Uncle Bill's Pet Centers!