Gourami - Pink Kissing

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

Kisser Fish, Kissing Gourami Scientific Name: Helostoma temminickii

Basic Info

Kissing Gourami are very stunning and beautiful. They have pink to translucent bodies, with very large eyes. At maturity, the Kissing Gourami will reach a size of up to 12 inches. Females tend to be larger than males, though otherwise they are impossible to distinguish.

Health

The Kissing Gourami is an easy fish to care for, though the Kissing Gourami is sensitive to water conditions. If ammonia levels get even a little high it can kill this fish. They will best thrive in waters with a temperature range from 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. A pH level of seven to eight and a half will be acceptable for the Kissing Gourami. Their diet includes fresh zucchini, lettuce, peas, spinach, live brine shrimp, bloodworms, glass worms, tubifex worms, and frozen, freeze dried, and flakes. They are also sometimes known to eat algae from the sides of tanks. These fish can grow very large, and it is important they be kept in a large tank. Their juvenile size is often misleading to some, and unfortunately has lead to their deaths from being kept in tanks that are too small. Breeding The Kissing Gourami is difficult to breed, due to their size and indistinguishable sexes. Kissing Gourami are egg layers, but they do not build bubble nest like other Gourami species.

Habitat

Fresh water fish

Behavior

The Pink Kissing Gourami, also known as the Kisser Fish, or Kissing Gourami, is a beautiful fish. They are known for the unusual activity of "kissing", which is actually a territorial dispute. Also, their rich colors interesting bodies make them an exotic and desired fish among beginning and experience aquarists alike. Each Kissing Gourami has an attitude of its own. Some are found to be peaceful and tolerant, and others will attack most fish they share space with. However, most Kissing Gourami will get along rather well in community aquariums, if their tankmates are of a similar size. They have been known to eat smaller fish. Male Kissing Gourami will fight for territory by extending their lips and pressing them together. This is where they get their name. No physical damage will arise from these kissing fights. Kissing Gourami should be kept in large tanks with moderate imitation plant and rock decoration. Live plants tend to be used as a food source and will not make good decorations for this reason. The Pink Kissing Gourami is typically a middle to top range swimmer, they are surface breathers like other Gouramis. Although the average lifespan of the Kissing Gourami is 5 years, some may live over 12 years.

Origin

Thailand

History

The Kissing Gourami, or Helostoma temminckii, is originally from Thailand.

Common Foods

Small fish