Snakeskin gourami - Trichogaster pectoralis
Scientific name: Trichogaster pectoralis
Common name: Snakeskin gourami
Family: Osphronemidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 25 cm (7.87 - 9.84 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8.3
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 10°N (35.71 - 178.57ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 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
This Gourami will accept all foods offered. Their staple diet should consist of quality flake or small pellets. Treats of blood worms and brine shrimp will be readily accepted.
Origin
Southeast Asia; Snakeskin gouramis are to be found in Cambodia and Thailand.
Sexing
Males will have an extended dorsal fin that will finish with a point. The pelvic fins will have a reddish tint to them.
Breeding
Snakeskin gouramis are the easiest gouramis to breed; raising the fry is the hard part as they can produce 5000 in one batch. The male will build a bubble nest and the female will then enter it to lay her eggs. Both fish will make good parents and the fry, once hatched should be fed on finely crushed flake initially. Newly hatched brine shrimp should also be offered for alternate meals.
Lifespan
The expected life span for Trichogaster pectoralis is 3-5 years.
Short description
Trichogaster pectoralis need a lot of room, only keep them in a large aquarium. They require a planted tank with floating plants included. Reduce the water flow to a slow current.
Pictures
Thanks to Sayer for the picture! Other were bought from jjphoto.dk.