Thick-lipped Gourami | Colisa labiosa

Labyrinth Fish / Belontiidae / Thick-lipped Gourami

Profile: Thick-lipped Gourami
Colisa labiosa
Synonyms: Trichogaster labiosus
Physical description: This species has an elongated, ovule-shaped body with lateral compression. The caudal fin is fan-shaped and the ventral fins are long and slender-almost thread-like. The body color varies, but the back is usually dark orange-brown, while the belly is dark turquoise. The flanks are orange-brown with alternating transverse, turquoise stripes. The ventral fins are orange to red, while the anal fin is is bluish with a white to orange edging. The caudal fin is dull orange, and the dorsal fin is also dull orange. The iris of the eye may be orange. Females are less colorful, with a white-silver belly region
Size/Length: To 4" (10 cm)
Similar species: Colisa fasciata
Habitat: India; Southeast Asia; Myanmar (Burma)
S: middle, top
Aquarium: A tank measuring 24" (61 cm) with a capacity of 10-20 gallons (38-75 L) is sufficient. Follow suggestions for C. fasciata .
Water chemistry: pH 6-7.5 (6.8), 4-12°dH (8), 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Social behavior: A species suitable for a community tank except at spawning times when fish become territorial. This fish may be timid during acclimation.
Suggested companions: Other Colisa species, Corydoras , barbs, Trichogaster , Loaches, Loricarids
FOOD: Flakes; pellets; chopped vegetables; live; Tubifex, insect larvae, Brine Shrimp
Sexual differences: Males are more colorful and have more pointed dorsal fins.
Breeding techniques: As for C. fasciata, although C. labiosa constructs an even larger bubble nest.
Breeding potential: 5. This fish is easily bred with mature fish in a tank of their own.
Remarks: A gold strain exists.
Difficulty of care: 2. C. labiosa is a hardy species recommended for beginning aquariasts.