Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – micro pellets, live/frozen baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia; very picky
Aquarium species profile
Chocolate Gourami
Sphaerichthys osphromenoides · Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo)
Minimum tank20 gal
Adult size2.5"
Care levelDifficult
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature77–86°F
pH range4.0–6.5
Compatible tank mates
Chili Rasboras, small nano fish, dwarf shrimp, other blackwater species
Tank mates to avoid
Active boisterous fish, hard-water species, fin-nippers
Care notes
One of the most beautiful and most challenging gouramis. Requires very soft, acidic blackwater conditions — tannins from driftwood and Indian almond leaves essential. Extremely sensitive to water quality and chemistry changes. Mouthbrooder. Worth the effort for experienced hobbyists.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.