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Kissing Gourami
Origin:
South East Asia.
Inhabits slow-moving water with thick vegetation. Feeds on a variety of plants
and animals, including green algae and zooplankton (Ref. 6459) as well as
aquatic insects near the water surface
Temperament:
Peaceful, though males will challenge for territory and
females with their mouths.
Feeding:
Feed with vegetable flakes. Will dine on plants. Do not clean
the algae off the back and sides of the tank as this is a food source.
Sexing:
Only God & they know.
Comments: Do not keep with smaller fish, after they start obtaining
size. However they will eagerly remedy this mistake for you.
The Kissing
Gourami is also known as the Kisser Fish or Pink Kisser. The Kissing Gourami is
silvery-peach in color and has thick lips that can be extended or pursed (as in
kissing). They are generally a tolerant species, but males may occasionally
fight by pressing their lips together (i.e., kissing). The weaker of the two
will normally back down. They are surface breathers and must have access to the
surface of the aquarium.
The Kissing
Gourami requires a 30-gallon or larger tank, with stones and plants. Plastic
plants are best because they will eat most all vegetation in the aquarium,
although Java Fern and possibly Java Moss may also be used. There is no need to
clean the back of the aquarium because the Kissing Gourami will browse on the
algae that is growing there. The Kissing Gourami is peaceful with other fish of
similar size and will tolerate others of the same species.
There are no
distinguishing characteristics between the male and female, although the female
is usually heavier than the male. The Kissing Gourami prefers soft water for
breeding and does not build a nest. Lettuce leaves should be laid on the surface
for use as spawning material. The eggs will float to the lettuce where the fry
will get nourishment from the bacteria and infusoria that is on the lettuce.
The Kissing
Gourami is an omnivore and requires both algae-based foods as well as meaty
foods. An algae-based flake food, along with freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex
and brine shrimp will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.
Breeding Kissing Gourami
and Raising Fry (Opens a new
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Other
Gourami Species (Opens a new browser
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General Aquarium Reference Books:
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