Giant gourami - Osphronemus goramy

Scientific name: Osphronemus goramy

Common name: Giant gourami

Family: Osphronemidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 50 - 70 cm (19.69 - 27.56 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 25°N (71.43 - 446.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 20 - 30 °C (68 - 86°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: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Giant Gouramis are omnivores and have a varied diet. In the wild, they feed on plant matter, small insects, and invertebrates. In an aquarium, you can provide them with a mix of high-quality pellets, flake food, and fresh vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and peas. They will also accept occasional live or frozen food such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Origin

The Giant Gourami is native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in large river systems, lakes, and swamps in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Sexing

In mature Giant Gouramis, males tend to develop longer and more pointed dorsal and anal fins compared to females. Males may also have a more pronounced forehead hump, which becomes more noticeable with age.

Breeding

Giant Gouramis are known to build bubble nests during breeding, where the male constructs a floating nest made from bubbles and plant material at the water's surface. The female lays the eggs in the nest, and the male guards them until they hatch. Breeding can be done in large tanks, but it requires stable conditions with slightly warmer water and plants for the bubble nest.

Lifespan

Giant Gouramis can live for up to 20 years with proper care in an aquarium, making them a long-term commitment for aquarists.

Short description

The Giant Gourami is a large and hardy fish, popular in aquariums due to its peaceful nature and adaptability. Despite their size, they can coexist with similarly sized fish in community tanks. However, they may become territorial as they grow older, so ample space is necessary. These fish are known for their intelligence and may even develop a bond with their owners over time.