Blue Dwarf Gourami

In body structure, the Blue Dwarf Gourami is identical to its ancestor, the Dwarf Gourami: it has a somewhat laterally compressed body and large, rounded fins. The pectoral fins are thin and filamentous, equipped with sensitive sensory cells that allow the fish to explore surrounding objects through tactile contact. In the oral cavity, there is a special organ that enables the fish to absorb atmospheric oxygen directly from the air when it gulps bubbles from the water surface. The coloration is predominantly uniformly blue, with muted shades of red and red-brown dots that form barely discernible vertical stripes.

Males are distinguished by their brighter coloration and pointed dorsal fin. Females, on the other hand, are paler in color, and their dorsal fin is rounded or curved.

This variety was artificially created and, therefore, does not occur in the wild. The largest breeding centers for these fish are located in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe, from where the Blue Dwarf Gourami is supplied to global markets.

This is a peaceful and friendly species that coexists well with other calm fish of comparable size. Overly active or aggressive tank mates can frighten the Blue Dwarf Gourami and cause stress, which will negatively affect its well-being. When introduced to a new aquarium, the fish initially behave very shyly and timidly, preferring to spend most of their time in hiding places or among dense plant thickets. Intraspecific relationships are much more complex: two males show intolerance towards each other, may engage in fights for territory and females, and females also often become objects of aggressive behavior from males. The most suitable option for keeping them is a pair or a group with one male and several females (a harem).

For keeping one or a pair of fish, a small aquarium of 40–50 liters is sufficient; a larger number will require a correspondingly larger tank. The minimum equipment set should include a filter, heater, aerator, and lighting system. It is important to set up the filter to ensure minimal water movement, as Gouramis inhabit still or very slow-moving waters. For decor, dense thickets of rooted plants are preferred, arranged in groups and along the back and side walls, as well as shelters made of natural or artificial materials (e.g., driftwood, grottoes, castles, sunken objects). The number of shelters should correspond to the number of fish. The substrate should be dark, and its particle size is not critical.

The Blue Dwarf Gourami readily consumes all types of dry commercial foods, including flakes, granules, and tablets. High-quality specialized foods designed for Gouramis will be an optimal choice. As a supplementary diet, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, or similar live/frozen foods can be offered. Feeding frequency is one to two times a day, unless a special food with individual recommendations on the packaging is used.

Breeding is relatively simple, although the unpredictable behavior of the male introduces its own peculiarities. If other species besides the Blue Dwarf Gourami inhabit the aquarium, spawning is recommended to be carried out in a separate tank, replicating the conditions (water parameters, decor) of the main aquarium. A stimulus for spawning is a gradual lowering of the water level to 15–20 cm over a week, while simultaneously raising the temperature to 29°C. The pH level should be brought to 6.0–6.5; the optimal method is to use a filter with a peat insert. Meat products — live or frozen — must be included in the daily diet. Lighting should be dimmed. After some time, the female will begin to mature her eggs, and the male will start building a bubble nest from air bubbles and fragments of floating plants. During the construction period and for some time afterward, the male may show aggression towards the female, so the presence of shelters and dense plant thickets becomes extremely important. The courtship process is short but very fascinating: the male spreads his fins, swims around the female, presses against her, touching her mouth, and nips her back or tail. Then the female releases eggs, which are immediately fertilized and transferred to the nest. The total number of laid eggs can vary from 300 to 800. The male remains to guard the clutch, while the female returns to the main aquarium. Fry hatch within the next day, and after another three days, they begin to swim freely. At this point, the male leaves his offspring and joins the female. The Blue Dwarf Gourami quickly loses its parental instincts and perceives its young as a food source. Fry should be fed specialized micro-foods, artemia, and infusoria.

In a balanced aquarium with an established biological system, health problems generally do not arise. Poor nutrition, deteriorating living conditions, or contact with sick fish can provoke the development of diseases. More detailed information on symptoms and treatment methods can be found in the “Diseases of Aquarium Fish” section.

When choosing a Blue Dwarf Gourami, attention should be paid to the fish's activity and the condition of its skin. Healthy specimens should be active, with bright, clean coloration without visible spots, film, or fin damage. Avoid purchasing fish that appear emaciated, have a sunken belly, or are gasping at the water surface, as this may be a sign of chronic diseases or stress. Observe their behavior in the store: the fish should show curiosity, not be apathetic or timid to the point of panic.

Keep in mind that this species is prone to intraspecific aggression, so when purchasing several individuals, it is important to assess their interaction in the general aquarium. It is recommended to buy fish from reputable suppliers, as selective forms can be sensitive to water quality and transport conditions. Be sure to check their eyes for clarity and ensure there are no signs of frayed scales, which is an alarming symptom of bacterial infections.