Honey Dwarf Gourami | Colisa sota

Labyrinth Fish / Belontiidae / Honey Dwarf Gourami

Profile: Siamese Fighting Fish
Betta sota
Synonyms: Colisa chuna, Trichogaster chuna, T. sota, Trichopodus chuna
Physical description: A laterally compressed fish with long-oval shaped body. This species is similar in fin shape to C. lalia , although coloration of these two species is entirely different. Males and females are pale orange at most times. The fins match the body color. At spawning times, the male develops a dark orange color, and his head, throat, and front part of the anal fin become dark green to black. The rear parts of the anal and dorsal fins is also dark orange, as is the caudal fin. The ventral fins of the male may become black.
Size/Length: To 1.7" (4.5 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: Northeastern India; Assam; Bangladesh
S: middle, top
Aquarium: A tank measuring 20" (51 cm) with a volume of 10 gallons (38 L) is suggested. Follow recommendations for C. lalia .
Water chemistry: pH 6-7.5 (6.8), dH 4-15 (8), 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Social behavior: A peaceful and timid species that can be combined with other peaceful species. Males become aggressive when defending their brood at spawning times.
Suggested companions: Colisa , Trichopsis, Corydoras , Danios, Loaches, Loricarids.
FOOD: Live; insect larvae, Tubifex, insects, crustaceans; flakes; occasionally algae; pellets; tablets
Sexual differences: At spawning times, males become dark orange with a black head, throat, and belly. Females at that time are brownish orange.
Breeding techniques: Follow suggestions for C. lalia.
Breeding potential: 7. Breeding is moderately difficult.
Remarks: Under unsatisfactory conditions, this fish may be colorless besides being susceptible to velvet disease.
Difficulty of care: 5. This species requires frequent partial water changes, and tends to susceptible to disease.