Chocolate Gourami

Sphaerichthys osphromenoides is a mouthbrooder from peat swamp forests of Borneo and Sumatra. The warm chocolate-brown body is crossed by cream vertical bars that intensify in breeding condition. It demands extremely soft, acidic, warm water and is sensitive to changes in water chemistry — strictly an expert species.

Water: 24–30 °C, pH 4.0–6.5, very soft (GH 0–5); peat filtration essential. Tank: 40 L minimum; species or specialist biotope only; tannin water, leaf litter. Feeding: Live and frozen small invertebrates — baby brine shrimp, Daphnia, micro worms. Behaviour: Peaceful but timid; paternal mouthbrooder; keep pairs or small groups. Compatibility: Species tank or with other extreme blackwater specialists only.