Dwarf Gouramis
Colisa lalia, the dwarf gourami, is another fish that has gained many fans. Since it is one of the smallest of the gouramis, it is very desirable in the smaller aquarium. But this is not the only reason for its popularity. The dwarf gourami is one of the prettiest members of its group. Like the betta, it builds a bubble-nest, but it goes one step further than the betta in nest-building and it weaves in bits of plants as a sort of superstructure. Owing to the added complexity of the work of nest- building, it is rather common for the female to help the male in the construction, though frequently she meets death as her reward during the period following mating. As two strange fish thrown together for mating may not get along too well, it would be wise to observe the same precautions with the C. lalia as you would when mating the betta.
The shyness and timidity of C. lalia may cause its keeper some concern, but these undesirable characteristics may be overcome by keeping them hungry for awhile and then introducing some friendly fish into the tank. When you throw a little food into the front of the tank, the friendly fish will race for it, while the shy C. lalia will stay hungry. After a few days of this treatment, the hunger will help overcome their shyness, and they will eat and mingle easily with the other fish.
The optimum breeding temperature for this gourami, as well as the other species, is about 79°F. At this higher temperature their color is more intense than at lower temperatures.
Other gouramis are popular, too. The striped gourami, C. fasciata, is also called the "giant banded gourami," both names being attributed to the physical characteristics of the fish. This species has the general breeding habits of the family, and the female should be removed after spawning. The species is rather peaceful toward other fish, as is the entire group.
The thick-lipped gourami, C. labiosa, is halfway between the size of the giant and the dwarf and is not as colorful as either. Though its "lips" are not really very different from the other gouramis, a careful comparison with other types will undoubtedly reveal some contrasts.
