What is a Dwarf Gourami?

Dwarf gourami, or Colisa lalia, is a freshwater fish that originated from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan and perhaps Myanmar and Nepal. These fish now inhabit fresh waters in other parts of the world, including the United States. In the wild, dwarf gourami typically live in lakes or slow-moving streams with abundant aquatic plants. These fish are a popular aquarium fish for tropical fish enthusiasts.

Colisa lalia are relatively small, growing to a maximum of 3.5 inches (8.8 cm) although the typical length is 2 inches (5.1 cm). Males have vertical blue-green stripes that stand out against a bright reddish-orange background. Females, which are less colorful than males, have light yellow vertical striping set against a silver-blue background.

Dwarf gourami prefer water temperatures to be between 77 to 82.5 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 28 degrees C). The recommended pH level is 6.0 to 7.5 and recommended dH is level between 5 to 19. The absolute minimum tank size for two dwarf gourami is 10 gallons (about 38 liters). As with any other fish tank, the larger the water-to-fish ratio is, the healthier and happier the fish are likely to be.

Colisa lalia are a non-aggressive fish. They can be kept in community aquariums if the other fish are similarly non-aggressive. If a tank has more than one adult male dwarf gourami, the fish can become territorial. In this case, having a large tank that includes many aquatic plants may solve the territorial problem. The gourami typically spend most of their time in the mid to top ranges of the tank.

Dwarf gourami are omnivorous, or will eat both meat and plant foods. While these gourami can live on commercial tropical flake fish food alone, the gourami may lose their bright colors if offered only this food. In order to keep those colors bright, the fish should also eat live food such as brine shrimp as well as plankton.

Colisa lalia will reproduce in captivity under certain circumstances. People who want to breed these gourami should set up a separate aquarium. Water levels in the tank should be between 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) with a water temperature between 82.5 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (28 to 30 degrees C). The male gourami will use plant material, which should be readily available in the tank, to make a bubble nest. A bubble nest is a combination of plant materials, bubbles and a secretion from the fish's mouth that hold all of the ingredients together.

After the female or females have quit laying eggs, the females should be removed from the tank as the male will be the main caregiver. If all is successful, eggs will hatch within two days. The fry, or baby fish, will stay in the bubble nest for about another three days. At this point, the male should also be put into another tank as the male will consider the fry to be food.

A Dwarf Gourami is a small, brightly colored freshwater fish native to South Asia. It's a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to its vibrant hues and peaceful temperament. Dwarf Gouramis typically grow to about 3.5 inches in length and are known for their labyrinth organ, which allows them to breathe air from the surface.

Dwarf Gouramis thrive in warm, slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. In an aquarium setting, they prefer a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C) and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. They benefit from a well-planted tank that mimics their natural habitat, providing hiding spaces and a sense of security.

Caring for Dwarf Gouramis involves maintaining clean water with regular changes, ensuring proper filtration, and keeping the tank environment stable. They should be fed a varied diet of high-quality flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms, and brine shrimp. It's also important to monitor their health regularly, as they can be prone to diseases like Dwarf Gourami Iridovirus.

Yes, Dwarf Gouramis can be kept with other peaceful community fish. They are generally non-aggressive but can become territorial with other gouramis. Suitable tank mates include tetras, mollies, and corydoras. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive species that may bully or stress them.

Dwarf Gouramis are bubble nest builders. The male constructs a nest of air bubbles coated with saliva at the water's surface. After an elaborate courtship display, the female lays eggs, which the male fertilizes and places in the bubble nest. The male then guards the nest until the fry hatch and become free-swimming.

With proper care, Dwarf Gouramis have a lifespan of about 4 to 6 years. Factors that contribute to their longevity include a well-maintained tank, a balanced diet, and prevention of common diseases. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment of any health issues can help ensure a full and healthy life for these colorful fish.