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Linke's Licorice Gourami
Parosphromenus linkei
Also known as Linke's Liquorice Gourami
Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Osphronemidae
Linke's Licorice Gourami is a tiny, peaceful labyrinth fish native to Southeast Asia, known for its slender body and subtle coloration. This species is ideal for nano and planted aquariums, thriving in small groups or pairs with minimal bioload. They are relatively hardy once established but require pristine water conditions and gentle tank mates.
At a glance
- Size
- 1.2 in
- 3 cm
- Min tank
- 10 gal
- 38 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 36–143 ppm
- 2–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 4-6 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Linke's Licorice Gouramis are micropredators that feed on small live foods such as microworms, copepods, and daphnia. Supplement with high-quality micro pellets and occasional vegetable matter. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily, offering only what can be consumed in a few minutes.
Behavior
These gouramis are shy and reclusive, preferring densely planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. They are most active during dawn and dusk, spending much of the day among vegetation. Males may display mild territorial behavior toward each other, but they are generally peaceful with other small, non-aggressive species.
Breeding
Breeding is challenging and rarely achieved in home aquariums. Males build bubble nests and are mouthbrooders, but pairs are difficult to condition and fry survival rates are low. Breeding requires pristine water conditions, dense vegetation, and minimal disturbance.
Tank mates
See all 6Similar size and peaceful temperament; compatible with small gourami groups
Tiny, non-aggressive; ideal nano tank companion
Peaceful algae eater that won't compete for food or space
Larger shrimp less likely to be predated; helps maintain tank cleanliness
Provides essential cover and foraging habitat
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Bacterial Infection, Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Gradually raise temperature to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform daily 25% water changes, use salt baths or ich-specific medication; maintain excellent water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Perform daily 50% water changes, improve water quality, use antibacterial medication if severe; remove any sharp decorations
Bacterial Infection
Cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, body sores or lesions, color fading
Maintain pristine water conditions with frequent changes, use broad-spectrum antibacterial treatment, isolate affected fish if possible
Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Gold or rust-colored dust on body, rapid breathing, scratching behavior, lethargy
Increase aeration, raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform daily water changes, use copper-free velvet medication
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.
At a glance
- Size
- 1.2 in3 cm
- Min tank
- 10 gal38 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 36–143 ppm2–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 4-6 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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