Giant Red Tail Gourami - Osphronemus laticlavius : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Giant Red Tail Gourami (Osphronemus laticlavius) presents an impressive aquatic specimen characterized by its substantial size that can reach up to 50 cm. Having emerged relatively recently within the realm of the aquarium hobby, this species was formally documented in 1992, with its earliest appearances in aquarium settings observed around 2004. Despite its allure, this species remains relatively uncommon within the trade, its scarcity contrasting with its sought-after status. If acquired, it stands as a remarkable centrepiece for extensive community aquariums.
Among the category of immense Gouramis, this species boasts the most pronounced colouration. Its inherent hues exhibit captivating blue-green iridescence accentuating its body and appendages, adorned with reddish trim. During its juvenile phase, the chromatic display is comparatively subdued, with the vibrant ornamental fins progressively maturing over time. Due to its swift growth rate and voracious feeding habits, its colouration evolves dynamically. The species' conspicuous red-finned characteristic carries cultural significance, embodying auspicious symbolism in many Chinese traditions, consequently driving substantial demand.
Given its prodigious dimensions, the Giant Red Tail Gourami necessitates an extensive aquatic enclosure. While not posing intricate care requirements, the sheer size of this species makes it a preference among seasoned aquarists equipped to provide the requisite spatial parameters. Aspiring keepers of this species should anticipate accommodating it in a tank of 1000 litres or more. Although amenable to cohabitation within a community arrangement, its compatibility with tankmates is subject to variability. Juveniles can display spirited behaviour, while adults tend to exhibit a mellower disposition, becoming aggressive predominantly within confined confines. The species generally harmonize with other robust, larger fish. In maturity, their territorial tendencies become pronounced, often leading to adverse outcomes for newly introduced fish.
A maturing Giant Red Tail Gourami attains a substantial, vigorous, and active stature. Accordingly, a decor approach that maximizes manoeuvrability is recommended. Minimal adornments, such as a modest number of driftwood pieces or smooth stones, offer a sense of shelter. Sturdy plants positioned along the tank's periphery and surface-floating vegetation are appreciated; however, their voracious consumption mandates their resilience, necessitating the selection of rapidly proliferating species. Given the species' hearty appetite, a rigorous filtration system is advisable, accompanied by a weekly water replacement regimen of up to 50% to uphold water quality standards.
Giant Red Tail Gourami Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Giant Red Tail Gouramis can be a challenge due to the subtle differences in physical characteristics. Typically, females exhibit thicker lips and a less vibrant colouration than their male counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Osphronemus laticlavius |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1992 |
| Other Names | Giant Red Finned Gourami, Red Flag Giant Gourami, Crimson Tail Gourami, |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Anabantiformes |
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Genus | Osphronemus |
| Origins | Malaysia |
| Max Size | 50 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Bubble Nester |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 20 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 25 |
| ℉ | 68 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
Giant Red Tail Gouramis are fascinating creatures that hail from the lush island of Borneo in Indonesia, as well as the Kinabatangan and Segama river basins in Sabah in East Malaysia. These magnificent fish have adapted to survive in the heavily vegetated putrid waters of marshlands, swamps, and sluggish-moving canals and can also be found in slow-moving lakes, rivers, and flooded forests during the rainy seasons. What makes the Giant Red Tail Gouramis stand out is their unique labyrinth organ, which allows them to breathe air directly from the surface of the water. This adaptation enables them to survive in oxygen-depleted waters, where other fish would struggle to survive.
Breeding
Unfortunately, successful breeding of Giant Red Tail Gouramis in an aquarium environment has not yet been reported. However, based on observations of their close relative, the Giant Gourami, it is likely that they build spherical bubble nests from bits of vegetable matter anchored to subsurface grass or reeds.
During the breeding season, which typically occurs in April and May, the male will take 7 to 10 days to construct the nest. Once the nest is complete, the female will release up to 3,000 eggs, which the male will fertilize and place in the bubble nest. The male will carefully watch over the nest, collecting any eggs that sink and placing them back into the nest.
Around 40 hours after spawning, the eggs will hatch, and after 15 days, the fry will become free-swimming. As of now, it is unknown if the breeding process for this species in captivity differs from that of their relatives.
Diet & Feeding
In order to maintain optimal health in Giant Red Tail Gouramis, it is essential to provide a well-balanced diet that is rich in vegetable material. These gouramis are not particularly finicky eaters and will consume a wide variety of foods, particularly as juveniles. In addition to standard flakes and pellets, they will readily accept live, frozen, or freeze-dried options such as worms, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, as well as vegetables like lettuce, algae wafers, and even boiled potatoes or peas. It is recommended to feed these fish once or twice daily to ensure they receive proper nutrition.
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