More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 25.0cm / 9.84inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 20.00dgH / 357ppm |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
General Description
The Helostoma Temminkii, commonly known as the Kissing Gourami, is a highly-specialized microphagous filter-feeder with fleshy lips covered in moveable teeth used for rasping algae and microorganisms. This species is distinguishable by its pinkish-white form, with a less popular partially leucistic variety and a wild gray to greenish-colored form. It is not recommended for most home aquariums due to its belligerent behavior, adult size, and long life span that can exceed 20 years.
Aquarium Setup
A minimum tank size of 300 liters is recommended for the Kissing Gourami. Decor choice is not critical, but open swimming space is important. Driftwood roots and branches are suitable for grazing, while tough-leaved plants like Anubias or Microsorum are recommended. Filtration should be efficient, avoiding excessive flow, with weekly water changes and a pH range between 6.0-8.0. The temperature range should be maintained between 22-30°C.
Behaviour
This species can become aggressive in limited space, particularly towards similarly-shaped fishes of the same or larger size. It is not gregarious and may harass conspecifics in smaller aquaria. The kissing behavior, the species' major selling point, is linked to social dominance, territorial boundaries, and potentially courtship rituals.
Feeding and Diet
The Kissing Gourami feeds on soft, easily broken-down foods like flake and pelleted products, alongside small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and Artemia. It is a filter-feeder, constantly mouthing water to filter particles and rasping algae-covered surfaces due to its adapted gill structures.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Unlike other anabantoids, this species does not exhibit parental care. Females are rounder-bellied when full of eggs, but there are no confirmed external differences between males and females. Spawning occurs at the start of the rainy season, with eggs scattered among vegetation.
Habitat and Distribution
The Kissing Gourami is native to various regions in southern Indochina and the Malay Archipelago, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia. It prefers slow-moving or standing waters with submerged vegetation, such as floodplain lakes, oxbows, and swamps. This species has been introduced to different countries for aquaculture, with feral populations established in areas like Florida, United States.