Gourami - Opaline

Species: Opaline Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus var. opaline)

Tank Requirements:

1. Tank Size: Provide a tank with a minimum capacity of 30 gallons for a single Opaline Gourami. If keeping a group, a larger tank is necessary. They appreciate space for swimming and territory establishment.

2. Water Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 75-82°F (24-28°C).

3. Water Parameters: Aim for a pH level of 6.0-8.0 and a hardness of 5-20 dGH.

4. Filtration: Install a reliable filtration system to maintain water quality and provide gentle water movement.

5. Substrate and Decor: Use a soft substrate like sand or small gravel. Opaline Gouramis appreciate a well-planted tank with open swimming areas. Provide hiding spots using plants, driftwood, and rock formations.

Feeding:

1. Diet: Opaline Gouramis are omnivorous. Offer them a varied diet that includes high-quality flake or pellet food as the staple. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and vegetable matter like blanched spinach or peas.

2. Feeding Frequency: Feed Opaline Gouramis small amounts 2-3 times a day, giving them what they can consume within a few minutes. Adjust the quantity based on their appetite and avoid overfeeding.

Tankmates:

1. Compatibility: Opaline Gouramis are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding or if space is limited.

2. Suitable Tankmates: Good tankmates include other peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish like corydoras catfish. Avoid keeping them with fin-nipping or aggressive fish species.

Maintenance:

1. Water Changes: Perform regular partial water changes of 25-30% every 1-2 weeks to maintain water quality and remove accumulated toxins.

2. Water Testing: Regularly test water parameters, including ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature, to ensure they remain within the appropriate range.

3. Cleaning: Routinely clean the tank by removing any excess waste, debris, and decaying plant matter. Regularly clean the filter to prevent clogging and ensure efficient water circulation.

Behavior and Health:

1. Behavior: Opaline Gouramis are peaceful and generally prefer to swim in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium. They may exhibit territorial behavior during breeding or if their territory is infringed upon.

2. Signs of Good Health: Look for active swimming, vibrant colors, intact fins, and a healthy appetite. Any signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of color, clamped fins, or abnormal growths, should be promptly addressed.

Remember to monitor your Opaline Gouramis regularly, maintain good water quality, and provide a well-balanced diet to ensure their overall health and well-being.