Sphaerichthys Selatanensis

Datasheet

Behaviour

Tankmates for the Crossband Chocolate Gourami must be selected carefully, as this species is slow-moving and susceptible to intimidation or food competition by larger or more active tankmates. Peaceful, pelagic cyprinids like Danionella, Microdevario, Trigonostigma, or smaller Rasbora species are suitable companions, as well as some loaches such as Pangio or Kottelatlimia species. It is advised not to house it with S. osphromenoides to reduce the risk of hybridization. While not forming schools, these fish seem to benefit from interacting with conspecifics, displaying more engaging behavior when kept in groups of at least six individuals. Group dynamics often involve noticeable hierarchies, with dominant individuals chasing away rivals during feeding or territorial disputes.

Feeding and Diet

The Crossband Chocolate Gourami is primarily a micropredator, feeding on small aquatic crustaceans, worms, insect larvae, and zooplankton. It may be initially picky in aquarium settings, possibly refusing dried or prepared foods. However, through gradual acclimation, it can learn to accept such foods. It is recommended to offer daily meals of small live or frozen foods like Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, grindal worms, or micro worms to enhance coloration and overall condition.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Sphaerichthys selatanensis is a maternal mouthbrooder, differing from its paternal mouthbrooding relatives within the Anabantoid suborder. Breeding can be successful in group settings or with a single pair, given proper water quality and diet maintenance. Males initiate courtship by darkening their patterning, while females intensify in color, turning deep chocolate brown with golden vertical bars. The spawning process involves the female collecting fertilized eggs on the substrate and carrying them in her mouth for 7-20 days before releasing 10-40 free-swimming juveniles. Sexual dimorphism includes males having straight lower jaw profiles and more pointed head shapes, while females possess slightly rounded lower jaws due to mouthbrooding.

Aquarium Setup

To create a suitable habitat for the Crossband Chocolate Gourami, maintain a pH range of 4.0-6.5 and provide ample cover and structure in the tank. Decor options include ceramic flowerpots, plastic piping, wood roots, and branches to create shady areas and caves. Incorporating dried leaves like beech or oak will simulate a natural blackwater environment. Dim lighting and plant species like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias are recommended. Moderate water movement or filtration is suitable due to the species' preference for still environments. Weekly 10-15% water changes are advised for optimal tank conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

These Gouramis are native to peat swamps and blackwater streams, often found in forested areas with dark, humic acid-stained waters. They inhabit environments with minimal light penetration, littered substrates of fallen branches, and rotting leaves. The species is distributed in southern Borneo, specifically near Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan, Indonesia, and extends to Central Kalimantan province. One sighting on Belitung Island indicates a broader distribution pattern. Due to human activities like logging and agriculture, their habitats have been significantly impacted, leading to a decline in species diversity.