Vailant Chocolate Gourami

Vailant Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys vaillanti) is a distinct species with a slightly different pattern than the standard Chocolate Gourami — the barring is often more clearly defined and the body color somewhat warmer. Males and females can be distinguished by fin shape differences. Chocolate Gouramis are specialist blackwater fish for aquarists who appreciate the extraordinary — their warm chocolate tones, fascinating mouthbrooding behavior, and peat swamp origins make them one of the most rewarding groups of gouramis for dedicated hobbyists.

Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp and Hikari Frozen Daphnia are the most reliably accepted foods. Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms are also good. Live baby brine shrimp, Daphnia, or Moina are a good option, especially for newly arrived or hesitant fish. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily in a calm environment. Dry foods may be accepted by settled fish but frozen foods should be the primary diet.

Chocolate Gouramis require soft, warm, acidic blackwater conditions — the water chemistry of their native peat swamp habitat is critical for long-term health. pH 5.0–7.0 with very low hardness, tannin additions from Indian almond leaves and driftwood, subdued lighting, and a mature, stable aquarium are essential. These fish are sensitive to water quality fluctuations and should be the last species added to any setup.

Keep in pairs or small groups. Peaceful with any appropriately small, gentle species that can tolerate the same blackwater conditions. These fish are mouthbrooders — unlike most gouramis, the female (in some species the male) holds eggs and fry in the mouth until they are released as free-swimming juveniles. No bubble nest is built.

All gouramis possess a labyrinth organ — a specialized breathing structure above the gills that allows them to breathe atmospheric air directly from the surface. This adaptation evolved for life in oxygen-poor waters and means gouramis can survive in conditions that would stress most other fish. Always ensure unobstructed surface access — a tight-fitting lid with a small gap, or a covered aquarium, prevents the fish from breathing cold air which can cause respiratory issues. Unlike most gouramis, Chocolate Gouramis are mouthbrooders — the female (in most species) holds the eggs in her mouth for 10–14 days until releasing free-swimming fry. No bubble nest is constructed.

Care & Ideal Parameters