Paludicola Licorice Gourami

Parosphromenus paludicola is one of the more elongate licorice gouramis, found in lowland peat swamps and blackwater forest streams of Peninsular Malaysia and possibly Sumatra. Its name means 'swamp dweller', aptly reflecting its preference for the most extreme blackwater habitats. Males display subtle orange-red fin margins and dark body banding under appropriate water conditions.

This species is perhaps the most demanding of the Parosphromenus in terms of water chemistry. It requires extremely soft, highly acidic water and is highly susceptible to pH fluctuations. Successful keepers use pure RO water buffered with botanicals and peat. Any hardness or alkalinity causes rapid colour loss and decline.

Like all licorice gouramis, P. paludicola is a cave spawner. It is listed as Vulnerable and its natural habitat is rapidly being destroyed by palm oil agriculture. Aquarium-kept specimens kept by engaged hobbyists represent a crucial safety net population.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 3.5–6.0, ultra-soft (GH 0–3) — one of the most demanding water chemistry requirements in freshwater fish. Tank: 25 L nano species tank; no substrate current; floating leaves, small caves, and leaf litter. Feeding: exclusively micro live foods; will rarely accept dry food without extensive conditioning. Breeding: cave spawner; extremely sensitive to water chemistry during spawning — maintain perfect parameters. Compatibility: species-only without exception.