Introduction
The Pearl Gourami is a great fish for any aquarist, long lived - up to 7.5 years, they are sure to give a wonderful new dimension to any community tank, for an extended period of time. Considered to be one of the easier labyrinth fish to keep, it is no wonder that this beautiful fish continues to grow in popularity.

Tank Setup
Keep some broad leaved and some floating plants in the tank, for these fish to feel secure and have some hiding places.

Community Tips
Peaceful, males will sometimes fight, but injuries won't occur. These fish tend to be wonderful additions to any community tank, but it is best to keep them with other peaceful species.

Feeding Tips
These fish can be easily fed with flaked food. Though it is best to occasionally add in some frozen or live foods, such as brine shrimp or bloodworms, into their diet.

Sexual Identification & Breeding
Breeding the Pearl Gourami is not difficult, and they produce several hundred fry at each spawning. To breed the Pearl Gourami, begin by conditioning the pair for a couple of weeks with live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. Separate the sexes for a few days before transferring them to the spawning tank. Lower the water level to about six to eight inches and cover the surface with floating plants. Set up the breeding tank at least one week before breeding to establish some small micro-foods on which the fry will feed for the first week. The temperature should be adjusted to 80 to 82°F and the tank should be well covered, as with all surface fish.
If your fish are well conditioned, the male's breast should be red and iridescent blue spots will shine on the body. After the male courts the female, he builds a bubble nest at the surface. The actual courtship and spawning are not at all violent or rough compared to some other labyrinth fish.

Mature males have a red throat.