Description
Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Trichopodus leerii
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Family: Osphronemidae
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Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
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Size: 4 – 5 inches (10 – 12.5 cm)
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Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
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Tank Zone: Mid to top-water
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS: 150 – 250 ppm
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pH: 6.0 – 7.5
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Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
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Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
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Pearl-like pattern across body with long, flowing fins.
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Peaceful and social; males may display mild territorial behavior.
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Slow, graceful swimmer; enjoys plants and hiding places.
🍽️ Food
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Omnivorous: flake food, pellets, live/frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp.
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Feed 2 times daily in small portions.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a pair; larger for groups.
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Filtration: Gentle flow; avoid strong currents.
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Decor: Heavily planted tank with floating plants; open swimming spaces.
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Water Changes: 25% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
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Peaceful; best kept in groups of 4–6.
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Compatible with small, non-aggressive community fish.
✅ Do’s
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Provide plenty of plants and floating cover.
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Keep water clean and stable.
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Offer live/frozen foods to enhance color.
❌ Don’ts
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Avoid aggressive tank mates.
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Don’t overcrowd the tank.
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Avoid fast-moving fish that may stress them.
⭐ Quick Tips
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Adds elegance to mid and top water levels.
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Graceful swimmers with shimmering pearl-like patterns.
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Beginner-friendly with proper care.
