NEON RED DWARF GOURAMI (Trichogaster lalius)

An efficient, largely piscivorous, predator with highly protrusible mouthparts. In the aquarium, juveniles can be offered chironomid larvae (bloodworm), small earthworms, chopped prawn, and suchlike, while adults will accept strips of fish flesh, whole prawns, mussels, live river shrimp, larger earthworms, etc. Older individuals do not require feeding on a daily basis, with 2-3 times per week sufficient.

This species should not be fed mammalian or avian meat such as beef heart or chicken since some of the lipids contained in these cannot be properly metabolised by the fish and may cause excess fat deposits and even organ degeneration. Similarly, there is no benefit in the use of ‘feeder’ fish such as livebearers or small goldfish, which carry with them the risk of parasite or disease introduction and tend not have a high nutriThe Flame Dwarf Gourami is an extremely attractive color-morph of the Dwarf Gourami Trichogaster lalius. It is one of the more "solid" colored varieties. The solid bright red on most of the body is contrasted by a brilliant blue dorsal fin. It notably lacks the vertical striping on the body and fins as found on its parentage. It was developed by breeders selectively pairing specimens for these desirable characteristics and strengthening them over several generations. This magnificent fish makes an outstanding show specimen for the aquarium.

With its bold red and blue coloration it is referred to by a variety of very descriptive common names. Originally it was called the Red Dwarf Gourami or Blushing Gourami. It is now more commonly called Flame Dwarf Gourami, Red Fire Dwarf Gourami, Blood Red Dwarf Gourami, and Neon Red Dwarf Gourami. Other than its coloration however, this fish is the same in all respects as the regular Dwarf Gourami. It stays fairly small with the males reaching only about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length. The females are a bit smaller at around 2 1/3 inches (6 cm).tional value unless properly conditioned beforehand.

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