Parosphromenus Allani

Datasheet

General Description

Parosphromenus allani, commonly known as the Allani Licorice Gourami, is a small species of labyrinth fish belonging to the Anabantidae family. It is predominantly a micropredator, feeding on tiny aquatic invertebrates. This species, characterized by its vibrant coloration in males, is not readily available in the commercial aquarium trade but is occasionally obtained from private aquarists.

Aquarium Setup

For maintaining P. allani in an aquarium, a tank size of at least 25 liters is recommended. The setup should ideally include driftwood, roots, and branches to create shaded areas. Additionally, the use of clay plant pots, piping, or plastic containers can provide shelter and potential spawning sites. Dried leaf litter can be added for a natural feel, offering cover for the fish and serving as a secondary food source for fry. Dim lighting, aquatic plants like Microsorum and Cryptocoryne species, and gentle filtration through an air-powered sponge filter are crucial for their well-being.

Behaviour

P. allani is not suited for a community aquarium due to its care requirements and conservation status. It is best kept alone or with small, peaceful cyprinids. Maintaining a mixed-sex group is possible, but breeders often opt for sexed pairs to avoid potential hybridization. The males exhibit courtship behaviors such as vertical displays and the formation of territories during spawning.

Feeding and Diet

In the aquarium, P. allani must be provided with a varied diet of small live foods such as Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, mosquito larvae, and micro worms. While frozen foods may be accepted, dried products are usually refused due to their lack of nutrition.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

During reproduction, males take the lead in egg care and spawning activities. Females are less colorful than males, a common dimorphic trait in the genus Parosphromenus. The species forms temporary pair bonds, with the male responsible for nest building and tending to the brood. Successful spawning results in fry that require initial feeding with live foods like Paramecium and later transitioning to Artemia nauplii.

Habitat and Distribution

P. allani is native to peat swamp forests and blackwater streams in Southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. However, habitat loss due to human activities poses a severe threat to its survival, leading to its classification as an endangered species. Maintaining acidic water conditions with low hardness levels is crucial for the well-being of this delicate species.