Gourami – Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminkii) 4cm

Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami – Vibrant Beauty with Quirky Charm

Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami captivates with its vivid pink hue and playful “kissing” behavior, hailing from Southeast Asia’s lush waters. This hardy fish thrives in well-planned tanks. However, its occasional quarrelsomeness requires careful tank mate selection. Therefore, aquarists adore its unique charm. Consequently, let’s create the perfect setup for this stunning gourami to shine in your aquarium.

Size and Lifespan

Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami grows to 20–30 cm in captivity. With proper care, it lives over 10 years. Thus, its size demands a spacious tank. Regular maintenance ensures a long, healthy life. Accordingly, plan for a large aquarium to support its growth and lively personality.

Ideal Tank Setup

Kissing Gouramis thrive in tanks mimicking their vegetated, slow-moving habitats. A minimum 120-liter tank suits one fish. Additionally, ensure access to the water surface for their labyrinth organ. To replicate its natural habitat:

• Substrate: Use fine gravel or sand for natural aesthetics.
• Filtration: Install a reliable filter for clean water.
• Decor: Add sturdy rocks and driftwood for hiding.
• Plants: Choose artificial or hardy plants like Java fern.

Perform 20% water changes weekly to maintain quality.

Compatible Tank Mates

Selecting tank mates requires caution, as Kissing Gouramis may bully smaller fish. However, medium to large, peaceful fish coexist well. Suitable tank mates include:

• Loaches
• Barbs
• Larger Tetras
• Some Cichlids
• Catfish

Monitor interactions to prevent slime coat damage or aggression.

Diet and Feeding

Kissing Gouramis eagerly eat flakes, frozen, and live foods like tubifex or brine shrimp. Additionally, offer spirulina-based foods and fresh vegetables like romaine or peas. Feed once or twice daily, avoiding leftovers to prevent water fouling. Consequently, a varied diet keeps them healthy and vibrant.

Breeding and Behaviour of Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami

Kissing Gouramis display quirky “kissing” behavior, often a sign of dominance or courtship. They build bubble nests for breeding, with males guarding eggs. However, they may ram other fish, causing stress. Thus, provide ample space and sturdy decor to reduce conflicts and support their active, mid-tank swimming.

Species Overview

• Species – Helostoma temminkii
• Common Name – Pink Kissing Gourami
• Origin – Indonesian island of Java and is also found in Borneo, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam
• Diet – Omnivorous
• PH Range – 6 – 8
• Temperature – Tropical and Coldwater 25°C – 26°C
• Breed Type – Bubble nest builder
• Current Size – approximately 4cm
• Max Size – approximately 30cm
• Tank Size – Minimum 120 liters

FAQs

What size tank is ideal for Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami?
A minimum 120-liter tank suits one gourami, with larger tanks for multiples to reduce stress.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, with medium to large fish like loaches or barbs. Monitor to prevent bullying.

How often should I feed them?
Feed once or twice daily with flakes, live foods, or vegetables in small portions.

Do they need to be in groups?
No, they can live alone but tolerate groups in spacious tanks.

How long do they live?
With proper care, Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami lives over 10 years.

Add a Pink Kissing Gourami to Your Aquarium Today!

Balloon Pink Kissing Gourami brings vibrant color and quirky behavior to your tank. By providing a spacious, well-maintained setup and compatible mates, you ensure its health. Therefore, embrace this Southeast Asian gem’s charm. Add this lively fish to your aquarium and enjoy its playful presence today!