Sphaerichthys vaillanti

6. July 2007

Sphaerichthys vaillanti is probably the rarest and most desired species of the Chocolate Gouramies. Their origin is Kalimantan the indonesian part of Borneo. Since they are black water inhabitants, the water equivalents should be adapted in the aquarium to it. This species does best in peat filtered water. Water must be changed often, and a good water conditioner must be used. The tank should be heavily planted with a cover of floating plants. Use a filtration system that creates only slight circulation. Also regarding the nutrition they have increased requirements live food as brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and fruit flies will do best. Red mosquito larvae and Tubifex should be avoided because of the often unclear origin (possibly waste water). S. vaillanti are peaceful, timid fish that are best kept in a pair in a species tank. Although, if combined with other fish, keep with other small, calm, nonaggressive species. A demanding species, recommended only for expert aquariasts. The Chocolate Gourami is the most difficult Labyrinth fish to care for. (Photo F. Schäfer, Text K. Diehl)

Angaben zum Tier
Herkunft Borneo