Opaline Blue Gourami | Single

Opaline Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus var.), also known as the Marbled Gourami, is a stunning color morph of the Three-Spot Gourami. It features a beautiful blue, marbled pattern that gives it a tranquil, opalescent appearance. These hardy and adaptable fish are popular among aquarists for their peaceful temperament and striking beauty.
Key Characteristics of Opaline Gourami:
Size: Typically 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length.
Color: Light blue to silvery-blue body with a marbled pattern of darker blue or black.
Lifespan: 4–6 years with proper care.
Behavior: Generally peaceful, though males may show territorial tendencies during breeding.
Activity Level: Prefers the middle and upper levels of the tank, moving gracefully.
Water Parameters for Opaline Gourami:
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F), slightly warmer water is ideal.
pH: 6.0–7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
Hardness: 4–15 dGH.
Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons for a single fish; larger tanks are recommended for groups.
Tank Setup:
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel for a natural look.
Plants: Tall, live plants like Vallisneria, Java fern, or Amazon swords provide cover and mimic their natural habitat.
Lighting: Moderate lighting enhances their colors while avoiding stress.
Water Flow: Gentle flow, as they prefer calm water environments.
Decor: Include driftwood, rocks, and floating plants for hiding and exploration.
Diet:
Opaline Gouramis are omnivorous and benefit from a balanced diet:
Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or pellets formulated for gouramis.
Protein Sources: Live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
Vegetable Matter: Blanched spinach, lettuce, or algae-based foods.
Behavior and Tankmates:
Behavior: Peaceful and calm, but males may become territorial, especially during breeding.
Tankmates:
Compatible Species: Tetras, rasboras, mollies, Corydoras, and other peaceful species.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species like barbs or cichlids.
Breeding Opaline Gouramis:
Opaline Gouramis are bubble-nest breeders:
Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with shallow water and floating plants for bubble-nest support.
Conditioning: Feed the pair a high-protein diet to encourage breeding.
Spawning: The male builds a bubble nest, and the pair mates beneath it, with the male guarding the eggs.
Egg Care: Remove the female after spawning to prevent aggression.
Fry Care: Feed fry with infusoria or liquid fry food, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.
Care Tips:
Male Territoriality: Keep only one male per tank unless the aquarium is large with plenty of hiding spots.
Surface Breathing: Opaline Gouramis are labyrinth fish, so ensure access to the water's surface.
Water Quality: Regular water changes and stable conditions are key to their health.
Why Choose Opaline Gourami?
Unique Appearance: Their iridescent, marbled pattern adds elegance to aquariums.
Hardy Nature: Adaptable to a range of water conditions, making them great for beginners.
Calm Presence: Peaceful behavior and graceful swimming create a serene tank environment.
Community-Friendly: Compatible with many peaceful tankmates.
Conclusion:
Opaline Gouramis are a beautiful and serene addition to freshwater aquariums. Their unique marbled coloration, ease of care, and calm nature make them a favorite for both community and single-species tanks. With the right care and environment, they will thrive and bring their tranquil beauty to your aquarium.