Pearl Gourami XL Trichogaster leeri
£30.00
Pearl Gourami XL Trichogaster leeri
Price is £30 a pair
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Description
Pearl Gourami (Trichogaster leeri):
A Comprehensive Husbandry Guide.
The Pearl Gourami, scientifically known as Trichogaster leeri, is widely considered one of the most beautiful and graceful species in the labyrinth fish family. Native to the lowland swamps and coastal rivers of Thailand, Malaysia, and the islands of Borneo and Sumatra, this species is beloved for its intricate “mosaic” patterning and peaceful temperament.
Description and Taxonomy.
Member of the Osphronemidae family, the Pearl Gourami is a “labyrinth fish,” meaning it possesses a specialised organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric oxygen directly from the surface.
The body is a warm brownish-silver, covered in hundreds of tiny, white, pearl-like spots. A distinct black horizontal line runs from the snout through the eye, fading toward the tail. In mature specimens, the ventral fins are modified into long, hair-like feelers used to sense their surroundings.
Sexual Dimorphism
- Males: Develop a vivid orange-red “throat” and chest, which intensifies during spawning. Their dorsal fin is significantly longer and more pointed.
- Females: Generally rounder in the body with a shorter, more rounded dorsal fin and much paler coloration on the throat.
Habitat and Water Conditions.
In the wild, they frequent acidic, tannin-stained waters with dense vegetation. They are relatively hardy but thrive when water quality is kept stable.
- Temperature: 24°C to 30°C (requires a heater).
- pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5.
- Water Hardness: 5 to 15° dGH.
Because they breathe from the surface, it is vital to have a layer of humid air between the water surface and the tank lid. Ensure the water surface is relatively calm, as heavy turbulence can stress the fish and interfere with their breathing.
Aquarium Setup and Tankmates.
A minimum tank size of 120 litres (approx. 3 feet) is recommended for a pair or a small group.
The Environment
- Planting: Use plenty of live plants like Vallisneria, Hygrophila, and floating species like Frogbit. This provides security and mimics their natural habitat.
- Substrate: Darker sand or gravel helps the “pearls” on their body stand out.
- Lighting: Dim or dappled lighting is preferred; floating plants are excellent for achieving this.
Compatible Tankmates.
The Pearl Gourami is exceptionally peaceful, often to the point of shyness.
- Suitable: Peaceful tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and small loaches.
- Avoid: Fin-nippers (like Tiger Barbs) or overly aggressive fish (like large Cichlids).
- Gourami Mixing: They are generally more social than Three-Spot Gouramis, but males may still squabble in smaller tanks. A ratio of one male to two or three females is ideal.
Diet and Nutrition.
They are omnivores and are not particularly fussy eaters. In the aquarium, they should be fed a varied diet to maintain their immune system and colour.
- Core Diet: High-quality tropical flakes or floating pellets.
- Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworm, brine shrimp, and Daphnia are essential for conditioning.
- Vegetable Matter: They will occasionally browse on algae or blanched spinach.
Breeding.
Pearl Gouramis are bubblenest builders. Breeding is a fascinating process but requires a dedicated setup.
- Preparation: Lower the water level to about 15–20cm and increase the temperature to 28°C.
- The Nest: The male builds a large nest of bubbles amongst floating plants.
- Spawning: The male “embraces” the female under the nest. Eggs float upward into the bubbles.
- Post-Spawning: The female should be removed immediately, as the male becomes highly protective and may turn aggressive.
- The Fry: Eggs hatch in roughly 24 hours. Once the fry are free-swimming (usually 3–4 days later), remove the male. Feed the fry infusoria or liquid fry food initially.
Convenient nationwide delivery; you’re only a click away!
Our nationwide delivery service makes it easy to receive your fish directly at your door, anywhere in the UK, for a flat rate of just £30. This convenient service allows you to order up to 10kg of fish, with the assurance that they will arrive in excellent condition. To make the fishes journey as comfortable as possible we use Oxygen in the fish bags and heat packs in all the boxes of fish we send out.
For your peace of mind we enclose a slip which will explain what to do in the event of a fish not traveling too well.
We use a licensed courier to deliver your fish directly to you door and will be with you by 1pm the next day.
Our delivery days are as follows:
Tuesday for Wednesday delivery
Wednesday for Thursday delivery
Thursday for Friday delivery
Please put your desired delivery day in the Order Notes on the Checkout page.
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