Kissing Gourami     Helostoma rudolfi

Grows to: 6-12"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are best kept in groups of the same size so larger individuals will not harass smaller ones.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They prefer thick vegetation.  They swim in the mid to upper region of the tank.  They possess a labyrinth organ which permits them to breath air directly.  They enjoy a slow water current.  Minimum tank size is about 20 gallons. (Temperature- 76-84),  (pH 6.5-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are durable fish that can readily mix with a variety of other community fish including barbs, sharks, and angels. 

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes and greens (spirulina flakes), along with blood worms, brine shrimp and frozen foods.  They are an omnivore with a diet heavy in plant matter.

Natural Habitat:  Java & Thailand.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Males and females look the same.  Males will "kiss" as a challenging behavior to establish rank amongst themselves and the behavior decreases with age.  Males and females will "kiss" during a breeding dance.  Kissing gourami males do not build bubble nests as is seen in other gourami species.