Gourami – Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami 4cm

Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami – Shimmering Beauty for Your Aussie Aquarium

The Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami captivates with its iridescent, pearl-like spots and compact, rounded body. Native to Southeast Asia, this freshwater fish thrives in well-planted tanks. Moreover, its peaceful temperament makes it a top pick for community aquariums. With proper care, this hardy species adds elegance to any setup. Therefore, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned aquarists across Australia.

Size and Lifespan

This fish grows to about 10-12 cm, larger than some gourami variants. Additionally, with optimal care, it lives around 4-5 years. Consequently, providing a stable environment ensures vibrant colours and longevity. Regular maintenance, like water changes, boosts their health. Thus, this species suits hobbyists seeking a manageable yet striking addition to their tanks.

Ideal Tank Setup

Creating a natural habitat keeps Balloon Pearl Lace Gouramis thriving. A 120-litre tank offers ample space for swimming. Furthermore, they prefer calm waters with minimal current. Subdued lighting and dark substrate enhance their shimmer.

To replicate their natural habitat:

• Use fine, dark gravel or aqua-soil for substrate.
• Add resilient plants like hornwort or water wisteria.
• Include floating plants for shade and cover.
• Incorporate driftwood or caves for hiding spots.

Compatible Tank Mates

These gouramis coexist peacefully with similar-sized, non-aggressive fish. However, avoid fin-nippers or overly boisterous species. A balanced community tank reduces stress.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Neon Tetras
• Cory Catfish
• Kuhli Loaches
• Cherry Barbs

Diet and Feeding

Balloon Pearl Lace Gouramis are omnivores, enjoying a varied diet. Feed them high-quality flake foods daily. Additionally, offer live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms weekly. Fresh veggies, such as spinach, enhance their health. Consequently, a balanced diet keeps their colours vivid. Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality. Thus, they stay active and healthy with proper nutrition.

Breeding and Behaviour of Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami

Males build bubble nests for breeding, often under floating plants. During spawning, males may chase females, so provide hiding spots. After spawning, remove the female to prevent stress. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. Moreover, these fish are generally peaceful but may show territorial behaviour. Therefore, keeping one male per tank avoids conflicts.

Species Overview

• Species – Trichopodus leerii
• Common Name – Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami
• Origin – Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
• Diet – Omnivore
• pH Range – 6.0-8.0
• Temperature – 23-28°C
• Breed Type – Egg Layer
• Current Size – 4 cm
• Max Size – 10-12 cm
• Tank Size – 120 litres

FAQs about Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami

What size tank is ideal for Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami?
A 120-litre tank suits a small group, providing ample swimming space.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, they thrive with peaceful, similar-sized fish like tetras or loaches.

How often should I feed them?
Feed small amounts 1-2 times daily, including flakes and occasional live foods.

Do they need to be in groups?
They do well in small groups of 3-5, with more females than males.

How long do they live?
With proper care, they live 4-5 years in a well-maintained tank.

Add a Balloon Pearl Lace Gourami to Your Aquarium Today!