Crossband Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys selatanensis) – Tank Bred

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The Crossband Chocolate Gourami is a rare and captivating species native to the soft, acidic peat swamps of southern Borneo. With its deep chocolate coloration accented by subtle vertical crossbands and delicate iridescence, this shy anabantoid is a true gem for the experienced aquarist. Unlike the more well-known Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys osphromenoides), this species exhibits a more robust body and distinctive crossband patterning.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Unique Appearance: Rich chocolate brown coloration with elegant vertical crossbands and subtle shimmer.
• Peaceful Temperament: Ideal for calm, low-stress community tanks with similarly gentle species.
• Labyrinth Organ: Like all gouramis, they can breathe atmospheric air and sometimes “sip” from the surface.
• Mouthbrooder Behavior: Males incubate fertilized eggs in their mouths—fascinating to observe during breeding.

Natural Habitat:

This species inhabits slow-moving, tannin-stained waters of blackwater streams in Indonesia. The environment is typically acidic, densely vegetated, and shaded by forest canopy with abundant leaf litter.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Floating plants (like Frogbit or Salvinia) and soft, dense species such as Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, and Anubias.
• Hardscape: Driftwood branches, root tangles, and coconut huts provide essential cover.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves, guava leaves, or catappa bark help recreate a blackwater environment and provide tannins for fish health.

Diet and Feeding:

Carnivorous by nature. Offer a varied diet of frozen foods (daphnia, cyclops, bloodworms), micro-pellets, and live food. May be picky eaters initially—acclimate with high-quality live or frozen fare.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Should be housed only with extremely peaceful species such as small rasboras, chili or green neon tetras, pygmy Corydoras, or other gentle Southeast Asian fish. Avoid fast-moving, aggressive, or competitive feeders.

Shrimp Safe:

Generally safe with adult dwarf shrimp, though smaller shrimp and fry may be at risk. Dense plants and botanicals help provide safe zones.

Breeding:

A paternal mouthbrooder. Males carry fertilized eggs for 10–20 days until fry are released. Soft, acidic water with low lighting and minimal disturbance can encourage breeding. Pair bonding and careful conditioning are essential.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 75° – 82° F (24° – 28° C)
• pH: 4.0 – 6.5
• KH: 0 – 2 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons for a pair (20+ gallons for a group)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous. Prefers live or frozen foods; supplement with high-protein micro pellets.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful and shy. Best kept in small groups with plenty of cover.
• Origin: Tank-bred or wild-collected (specify based on your stock).
• Average Adult Size: 1.5 – 2 inches (3.8 – 5 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1 – 1.25 inches (2.5 – 3.2 cm)

Looking to add a true rarity to your blackwater or Southeast Asian biotope tank? The Crossband Chocolate Gourami brings elegance, calm, and a glimpse into unique anabantoid behaviors.

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