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Moonlight Gourami (Trichogaster microlepis)
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Reviews
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Views
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Date of last review
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1
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1535
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Sun February 3, 2008
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Recommended By
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Average Price
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Average Rating
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100% of reviewers
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$5.00
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8.0
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Description:
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Compatibility: Moonlight Gourami
Maximum Size: Trichogaster microlepis
Minimum Tank Size: 20g
Temperature: 72-84F
Diet: Omnivorous
Level of care: Easy
General Notes:
This species gets its name from the color of its body. It is a rather metallic, silver color with a soft blue tint to it, much like natural moonlight. The Moonlight gourami is distinguished from other gouramis by its sloped forehead, as well, which is unique to this species.
Trichogaster microlepis originates from densely vegetated areas in Thailand and central Cambodia, where it is found in low-current waters. Therefore, it does not fare well in a tank with an extremely heavy current.
This gourami species tends to be a timid one (perhaps more so than the Pearl gourami) and therefore it is not unusual for it to stake out an area and hide there for the majority of the day. Due to its timidity, this fish should not be kept with aggressive fish. Ideally, it would also not be housed with many extremely active fish, though it is a fine candidate for a peaceful community tank.
Males of this species can be identified by the same manner as many other gourami species: a long dorsal fin that terminates in a point, as well as a reddish coloration along the pelvic fins and ventral (or feeler) fins. Females lack the reddish coloration and will have shorter, rounded dorsals. This species tends to have longer ventral fins than other gourami species. A healthy adult will display a vibrant red iris in the eye.
Diet should consist of a variety of protein and plant matter, including small live foods such as daphnia, flake food and frozen food. Many individuals relish skinned peas and fresh lettuce or zucchini..
While this species is fairly peaceful, as with all gouramis, males can be territorial and therefore care must be taken when housing several males together to ensure that they will get along. One male with several females is suggested, although a male does not need the company of a female.
Being an anabantoid, T. microlepsis possesses a "Labyrinth Organ" or accessory breathing apparatus that allows it to breathe atmospheric air. It is located above the gills and is made up of many folded tissues which are covered with blood vessels to allow the exchange of oxygen. This permits the fish to breathe in even low-oxygen waters in the wild, such as stagnant or slow moving bodies of water.
They are frequently found in heavily vegated, shallow and slow moving water. As a result, this species fares best in a heavily planted tank, with a low to moderate current and ample hiding places. Dark colors in an aquarium promote brighter coloration. An ideal tank has a lot of live plants with adequate open swimming space. Floating plants such as Duckweed or riccia are particularly appreciated by this species.
Also occasionally listed as Osphromenus microlepis.
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Author
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TheFighterFish
Large Fish
Registered: February 2006
Location: California
Posts: 847
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Review Date: Sun February 3, 2008
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Would you recommend the profile? Yes |
Price you paid?: $5.00
| Rating: 8
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Pros:
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nice colors, curious fish
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Cons:
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skimmish
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I like this fish. Certain lights make its color pop out more. Not that quick of a fish so don't house together with fast heavy feeders.
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