Licorice Gourami 2.5cm

Licorice Gourami

Licorice Gouramis are a truly adorable and engaging species to keep in the aquarium hobby. These fish win over aquarists with their simple but contrasting patterns and stunning colouration. Originating from the blackwater streams of Southeast Asia, these fish have a very peaceful demeanour which makes them perfect for a dedicated community aquarium. Their unique appearance and specific care requirements make them a fascinating choice for advanced hobbyists looking to add a touch of elegance to their aquariums.

Licorice Gouramis are named for their striking black and white striped pattern, reminiscent of licorice candy. Males are particularly vibrant, displaying a shimmering mix of blue, green, and red when in breeding condition, while females are more subdued but still quite attractive. These fish are small, reaching only about 4 cm in length, making them perfect for nano aquariums.

Breeding Licorice Gouramis can be a rewarding challenge. Males build bubble nests and exhibit stunning courtship displays to attract females. Providing a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots is essential for successful breeding. Females will lay their eggs in the bubble nest, and the male will guard and care for the eggs until they hatch. Ensuring soft, acidic water with a low pH is crucial to mimic their natural habitat and encourage spawning.

Tank Recommendations for your Licorice Gourami

A small group of licorice gourami will only require a tank of 60 litres. This ensures that there's ample space for around 5 gourami which will make them feel most comfortable. In the wild, licorice gourami come from slow moving, shallow waters that are dense with botanicals and plants. Though they will do fine in a high-tech planted aquarium, it is best that the required water parameters these fish need are met. The licorice gourami is not too fussed on hardscape and, but a tight-fitting lid will be a requirement since they can jump.

A super simple idea for these fish would be a 60-litre aquarium, that has a thin layer of river sand, some botanicals, a small LED desk light that has a warmer or even yellow hue and some floating plants such as frog bit. The aquarium will need a small heater and can be filtered through a single sponge filter. This will be a super affordable aquarium to run and enjoy.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Licorice Gouramis are peaceful and somewhat shy fish, best kept with other small, non-aggressive species. Their small size and delicate nature make them unsuitable for tanks with larger or more boisterous fish.

Usually compatible

Sparkling gourami, honey gourami, chocolate gourami, blue eyes, neon tetras and other nano species.

Sometimes Compatible

Shrimp which have a risk of being eaten but adults should be able to thrive. Apistogramma, rams and other territorial fish that may show minimal but long-term aggression to the smaller licorice gourami.

Rarely Compatible

Predatory South American cichlids and African cichlids will for sure make a meal out of the licorice gourami and will not be suitable to the conditions these fish require.

Feeding your Licorice Gourami

Licorice Gouramis are micro-predators and will thrive on a diet of live and frozen foods. They may be reluctant to accept dry foods initially, but with patience, they can be trained to eat high-quality micro pellets. Providing a varied diet of live baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms will ensure they receive the necessary nutrients and maintain their vibrant colours.