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)

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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

Banded Gouramis are omnivorous and thrive on a balanced diet. A high-quality spirulina flake or pellet should be their staple food. Additionally, supplement their diet with live or frozen treats such as bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp to enhance coloration and health.

Origin

Banded Gouramis originate from South and Southeast Asia, including regions of India, Bengal, and Burma. They are commonly found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and flooded fields, thriving in warm and slightly acidic waters.

Sexing

Male Banded Gouramis are more vibrantly colored than females and possess a more elongated dorsal fin. Females, in contrast, have a shorter and more rounded dorsal fin and tend to have a slightly plumper body.

Breeding

Breeding Banded Gouramis can be an exciting experience. Follow these key steps:

Water Depth: Reduce water levels to about 20 cm (8 inches) in the breeding tank.
Floating Plants: Provide floating plants to aid the male in building a bubble nest.
Spawning Behavior: The male darkens in color and lures the female to the nest.
Egg Care: After spawning, remove the female, as the male will guard and tend to the eggs.
Hatching Time: Eggs hatch within 24 hours, and fry will be free-swimming in 3-4 days.
Fry Diet: Start feeding the fry Infusoria and transition to finely crushed flakes as they grow.

Lifespan

With proper care, Banded Gouramis can live for up to 4 years.

Suitable Tankmates

As peaceful fish, Banded Gouramis can coexist with various non-aggressive species. Ideal tankmates include:

Pearl Gouramis and Honey Gouramis (avoid aggressive gouramis).
Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras, and Harlequin Rasboras.
Corydoras Catfish and Kuhli Loaches (bottom dwellers).
Guppies and Platies (livebearers with similar requirements).
Otocinclus Catfish (great for algae control).

Avoid fin-nipping species such as Tiger Barbs and aggressive cichlids, as they can harass or stress the gouramis.

Best Plants for a Banded Gourami Tank

Adding plants provides hiding spots and enhances the natural habitat for Banded Gouramis. The best plants for their tank include:

Amazon Swords – Provide dense foliage and a natural feel.
Java Moss – Ideal for fry protection and natural grazing.
Floating Plants - Essential for bubble nest building.
Java Fern – Easy to maintain and does not require substrate planting.
Anubias – Hardy and slow-growing, perfect for natural aquascaping.

These plants not only create a stress-free environment but also help maintain good water quality.

Short Description

Banded Gouramis (Colisa fasciata) are among the more peaceful gourami species, making them excellent candidates for community tanks. Unlike other gouramis, they exhibit less aggression, especially when provided with ample hiding spots and floating vegetation. These fish are known to be hardy, but maintaining a stable environment with clean water and an appropriate diet is essential for their long-term well-being.

Interestingly, Banded Gouramis are sometimes sold as snacks in the local markets of India and Pakistan. However, in aquariums, they are prized for their beauty and fascinating behaviors.