Gourami and Paradise Fish Care Sheet

gourami and paradise fish care sheet

Gourami and paradise fish are tropical freshwater fish that vary greatly in size, depending on species and feeding habits. Originating in Southeast Asia, they are ideally suited for community aquariums.

facts average adult size: 2 to 24+ inches long, depending on species average life span: depends on species diet: omnivore minimum aquarium size: 10+ gallons, depending on species water temperature: 72 to 82˚F

Note: The information on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. If you need additional information, refer to the Sources section or contact your veterinarian as appropriate.

Developed with and approved by a qualified veterinarian. gourami and Developed with and approved paradise fish care sheet by a qualified veterinarian. diet housing habitat compatibility A well-balanced gourami nnKeep in an maintenance nnCompatible with same or paradise fish diet appropriately sized size or larger freshwater Daily: Check filter, water consists of: aquarium; provide fish, especially peaceful temperature and other nnFlakes, pellets, freeze- plants, rocks and décor bottom dwellers. equipment. dried or frozen. for hiding places, caves nnMay become aggressive and plenty of room for Weekly: Check water nnAvoid exclusively toward same species in swimming. quality at least once a smaller aquarium. feeding one type week. of food to ensure nnStable water quality nnCheck Petco’s Freshwater nutritional balance. and parameters are Monthly: Change 10 to Compatibility Care Sheet critical to the health of 25% of the total volume of for species specific feeding aquatic life. If you are water every 2 to 4 weeks information. Things to remember when unsure of your water or as needed. feeding your gourami or quality, Petco provides Introduce new inhabitants signs of a paradise fish: free water testing. to the aquarium gradually. healthy fish n nDepending on species nnClear eyes and size, feed small characteristics amounts 1 to 2 times nnGouramis and paradise nnHealthy appetite daily, no more than fish fish have a labyrinth nnBright, even coloring will eat in 1 to 2 minutes. organ that allows them nnFins completely intact to breathe oxygen nnThaw frozen food before from the water’s and undamaged feeding. surface like a betta. Avoid overcrowded conditions, which are nnUnique sensing and a major cause of stress feeling organ in the and disease. Maintain pelvic fin. good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration.

common health issues

Health Issue Symptoms or Causes Suggested Action red flags Fin rot Frayed or disintegrating fins; Improve water the base of the fins usually quality; consult your nnLoss of color or nnCloudy eyes reddens. aquatic veterinarian for treatment. appetite nnWeight loss Fungus White cottony growth and/or Quarantine fish; nnSpots or fungus on discoloration of the eyes. use a commercial nnBloating antifungal remedy as body or mouth directed. nnFrayed fins Bacterial Cloudy eyes, open sores, Improve water nnErratic swimming infections and/or reddening of the skin. quality; use a n commercial nLabored respiration antibacterial remedy as directed. Ich White spots appear on fins Quarantine fish and body; fish rubs against immediately; use hard objects or swims a commercial ich If you notice any of these signs, test water quality and awkwardly. remedy as directed. improve as necessary. Rapid respiration. shopping list for needed supplies qq Appropriately sized aquarium qq Appropriate food, dry and frozen qq Décor qq Water conditioner qq Filter qq Water test kit qq Full spectrum lighting qq Net qq Thermometer qq Freshwater substrate qq Airline tubing qq Airstone qq Air pump qq Book about gourami and paradise fish

sources Ask a store partner about Petco’s selection of books on gourami and paradise fish and the variety of private brand products available for the care and happiness of your new pet. All private brand products carry a 100% money-back guarantee. Because all aquatic life are potential carriers of infectious diseases, such as Atypical Mycobacterium and Salmonella, always wash your hands before and after handling your aquatic life or habitat contents to help prevent the potential spread of disease. Pregnant women, children under the age of 5, senior citizens and people with weakened immune systems should contact their physician before purchasing or caring for aquatic life and should consider not having aquatic life as a pet. Go to cdc.gov/healthypets and petco.com/caresheet for more information about aquatic life and disease. This care sheet can cover the needs of other species. Go to petco.com for more information.