Honey gourami Breeding Guide

Breeding Process

Honey Gouramis are relatively easy to breed in captivity, making them a great choice for aquarists interested in fish breeding. Begin by setting up a dedicated breeding tank of at least 20 liters, as these fish are moderately territorial and can become slightly more aggressive during breeding. Ensure the water parameters are slightly on the acidic side with a pH between 6.4 and 7.6 and a temperature range of 23°C to 29°C. Include plenty of floating plants, as Honey Gouramis are bubble nest builders, and these plants will provide coverage and support for the nest. Select a healthy pair of Honey Gouramis, identifying males, which are more vibrantly colored, while females tend to be rounder when ready to spawn. Introduce the pair to the breeding tank and feed them a high-protein diet, such as live or frozen brine shrimp and bloodworms, to condition them for spawning. The male will start creating a bubble nest at the surface using bubbles and plant debris. Once the nest is built, the male will court the female by swimming close and displaying his fins. The pair will embrace under the nest, during which eggs and sperm are released. The male will gather the floating eggs and place them into the nest.

Caring for the Fry

After spawning, it is crucial to remove the female from the breeding tank as the male becomes protective of the nest and the fry. The male will guard the eggs until they hatch in about 24 to 36 hours. Once the fry become free-swimming, which usually takes another 3 days, carefully remove the male to prevent him from eating the fry, as he may no longer exhibit parental care at this stage. Feed the fry infusoria or commercially prepared liquid fry food initially, transitioning to micro worms or finely powdered fry food as they grow. Maintain optimal water quality, conducting small water changes to avoid shocking the sensitive fry. Honey Gourami fry grow quickly, and with proper care, they will start displaying coloration at about 6-8 weeks. As they mature, transfer them to a standard aquarium when they are large enough to not be considered prey by other tank inhabitants.

Additional Information

When breeding Honey Gouramis, it is important to provide plenty of hiding spots and mild currents in the breeding tank. These conditions not only simulate their natural habitat but also help to reduce stress. Because Honey Gouramis are noted for moderate territorial behavior, a larger tank space can reduce stress and aggression. Keep in mind that sometimes multiple breeding attempts might be necessary if the first few attempts are unsuccessful. Patience and careful observation are key to successful breeding.