Banded gourami - Colisa fasciata

Scientific name: Colisa fasciata

Common name: Banded gourami

Family: Osphronemidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 15°N (71.43 - 267.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Food and feeding

Quality flake should be the staple diet of these fish. The addition of spirulina flake will be of great benefit, as will treats of blood worms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.

Origin

South Asia; Banded gouramis are to be found in India, Bengal, and Burma.

Sexing

Males will display a more intense coloration and will have an extended dorsal fin. The dorsal fin in the females will be more rounded.

Breeding

The water level in the breeding tank should be dropped to a depth of about 8 inches. Add some floating plants to aid the male build his bubble nest. The male will also darken when in spawning mode and invite the female to the nest ready for the egg laying. once the eggs have been laid, remove the female as it is the male who guards the nest. The eggs should hatch after 24 hours and when the fry are free swimming, they can be fed on Infusoria.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Banded gourami is 4 years.

Short description

Colisa fasciata are sold in markets of India and Pakistan as snacks. Banded Gourami is more peaceful than some of the other Gourami species and make an ideal candidate for the community tank. The addition of floating plants will help these fish settle. Open swimming spaces should be left at the front of the tank.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.