Parosphromenus Ornaticauda

Datasheet

General Description

Parosphromenus ornaticauda, commonly known as the ornate licorice gourami, is a small micropredatory fish belonging to the family Osphronemidae. This species is native to freshwater swamps and blackwater streams in Indonesia and Malaysia. It is among the smallest members of its genus, characterized by distinctive caudal fin coloration and black pigmentation in the dorsal and anal fins.

Aquarium Setup

The P. ornaticauda is best kept in a fully decorated aquarium with driftwood, branches, and shaded spots for shelter. Dried leaf litter provides a natural feel, encourages microbe growth, and acts as a secondary food source. Soft, acidic water with low hardness is crucial, requiring a pH of 3.0-6.5 and temperatures between 22-28°C. Filtration should be gentle, with air-powered sponge filters recommended. Regular 5-10% weekly water changes are essential, and overfeeding should be avoided in pairs or small groups due to their sensitivity to organic wastes.

Behaviour

This species is not recommended for general community aquariums due to its specific care requirements and disposition. It is advised to keep P. ornaticauda alone or with peaceful cyprinids like Boraras or Sundadanio spp. Mixed-sex groups are possible, but breeders often prefer sexed pairs to avoid fry predation. Males exhibit unique courtship behaviors, forming temporary pair bonds, and are responsible for egg and brood care. They breed by spawning in caves or among leaf litter, with females leaving the male to tend to the brood.

Feeding and Diet

As micropredators, P. ornaticauda primarily consumes tiny aquatic invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet of small live foods like Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, Moina, and mosquito larvae. Frozen foods are sometimes accepted, while dried products are usually refused due to being less nutritious. Fry may require Paramecium or rotifers initially before transitioning to Artemia nauplii.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding P. ornaticauda can be challenging as they spawn in caves or among leaf litter, forming pair bonds during the process. Males display elaborate courtship behaviors to attract females, with the male tending to the brood after spawning. The species is not highly fecund, with broods typically containing 10-20 eggs. Males exhibit distinct coloration during breeding, with black and orange-red markings on the fins, while females are less intensively marked.

Habitat and Distribution

Parosphromenus ornaticauda is found in peat swamp forests and blackwater streams in the Kapuas drainage of West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Known for its stenotypic habitat preferences, this species thrives in dark, acidic waters with dense vegetation. Unfortunately, some of its habitats are threatened by pollution and deforestation, posing a risk to its survival in the wild.