Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichtys osphromenoides)

Rich, exotic, and hauntingly beautiful — the Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys osphromenoides) is a stunning and somewhat challenging blackwater gourami from the peat swamps of Southeast Asia. With its rich chocolate-brown body adorned with pale cream to white vertical bands, the Chocolate Gourami is one of the most visually distinctive and sought-after small gouramis in the hobby — a true jewel for the specialist blackwater aquarist.

Overview

Appearance

The Chocolate Gourami displays a rich chocolate-brown to dark brown body with pale cream to white vertical bands running across the body — a distinctive, high-contrast pattern that makes this species immediately recognizable. The fins display subtle colour accents that add to the overall elegance of this beautiful small fish. Males and females can be distinguished by subtle differences in band pattern and body shape.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 75 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• pH: 4.0 – 6.5 (very soft, acidic blackwater conditions essential)
• General Hardness (GH): 0 – 5 dGH (very soft water required)
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group
• Plants & Decor: Heavily planted with Indian almond leaves, driftwood, and leaf litter to replicate blackwater peat swamp conditions; dim lighting preferred

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: Live or frozen micro foods — baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia
• Treats: Small frozen bloodworms and other meaty micro foods
• Note: Can be finicky eaters; live foods are often preferred initially. Water quality must be pristine.

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

Best kept in a species-only or carefully chosen blackwater tank. Suitable companions include other small, peaceful blackwater species. Avoid boisterous or larger fish, and any fish that may outcompete them for food.

Breeding

Mouthbrooders — females incubate eggs in their mouths for several weeks. A fascinating and rewarding species to breed for the dedicated aquarist.

The Chocolate Gourami is a rare and beautiful fish that rewards patient and dedicated aquarists with extraordinary blackwater beauty. A true collector’s species for the experienced enthusiast.