Aquarium Fish

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Trichogaster fasciata – Banded Gouramiwww.aquasnack.co.uk Species OverviewScientific Name: Trichogaster fasciataCommon N...
19/02/2026

Trichogaster fasciata – Banded Gourami
www.aquasnack.co.uk

Species Overview

Scientific Name: Trichogaster fasciata

Common Names: Banded Gourami, Striped Gourami

Family: Osphronemidae (Gourami family)

Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial (especially males)

Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care

The Banded Gourami is a hardy and adaptable labyrinth fish known for its bold striping and confident personality. It is more assertive than some other gourami species, making correct tank planning important.

Appearance

Size: Up to 10–12 cm (4–5 inches)

Shape: Laterally compressed body with elongated dorsal and a**l fins

Coloration:

Base color ranges from olive-brown to bluish

Vertical dark bands across the body

Males develop more vibrant blue or reddish tones, especially during breeding

Distinguishing Features:

Long thread-like pelvic fins (typical of gouramis)

Strong vertical barring pattern

Males are generally more colorful and develop extended fins compared to females.

Natural Distribution

Native to South Asia, including:

India

Bangladesh

Nepal

Myanmar

It is widely distributed across the Ganges and Brahmaputra river basins.

Habitat

In the wild, Trichogaster fasciata inhabits:

Slow-moving rivers

Floodplains

Ponds

Irrigation ca**ls

Rice paddies

It prefers shallow waters rich in vegetation and often survives in low-oxygen environments thanks to its labyrinth organ.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

pH: 6.0–7.5

Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)

Salinity: Freshwater only

Stable conditions are more important than chasing exact numbers.

Aquarium Setup

Minimum Tank Size: 100 liters (25+ gallons)

Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel enhances coloration

Decorations:

Dense planting (live plants preferred)

Floating plants for cover

Driftwood and root structures

Lighting: Moderate; subdued lighting helps reduce stress

Water Flow: Gentle to moderate

Filtration: Efficient but not overly strong current

Provide visual barriers to reduce aggression between males.

Feeding

Natural Diet:

Insects

Small crustaceans

Zooplankton

In Captivity:

High-quality pellets or flakes

Frozen foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp)

Live foods when available

Occasional vegetable matter

A varied diet enhances coloration and overall health.

Breeding

Type: Bubble nest builder

Males build nests among floating plants

Male guards eggs and fry

Spawning triggered by slightly warmer water and abundant feeding

Sexual Dimorphism:

Males: brighter coloration, longer fins

Females: rounder body, especially when gravid

Separate females after spawning if male aggression increases.

Maintenance

Care Level: Moderate

Weekly 25–30% water changes recommended

Sensitive to poor water quality and ammonia spikes

Provide surface access for air breathing

They are hardy but territorial behavior must be managed.

Tank Mates

Compatible:

Medium peaceful barbs

Larger tetras

Rainbowfish

Bottom dwellers like Corydoras (if space allows)

Avoid:

Very small timid fish

Long-finned slow species (may be nipped)

Other male gouramis in small tanks

Best kept singly or one male with multiple females in a sufficiently large tank.

Important Notes

Can become territorial during breeding

May bully weaker tank mates

Requires surface access due to labyrinth organ

Not ideal for small community tanks

Color improves significantly in well-planted aquariums

With proper space and structure, the Banded Gourami becomes a striking centerpiece fish displaying fascinating behavior and bold personality.

Trichogaster chuna (Honey Gourami) — Species ProfileSpecies Overviewwww.aquasnack.co.uk Common names: Honey Gourami, Sun...
19/02/2026

Trichogaster chuna (Honey Gourami) — Species Profile
Species Overview
www.aquasnack.co.uk

Common names: Honey Gourami, Sunset Honey Gourami, Red Honey Gourami (colour form)

Scientific name: Trichogaster chuna (often still seen as Colisa chuna in older sources)

Family: Osphronemidae (gouramis)

Temperament: Peaceful, calm, slightly shy; males can be territorial during breeding

Lifespan: Typically 4–6 years (longer with stable water and gentle tank mates)

Appearance

Size: Usually 4–5.5 cm (around 1.5–2.2")

Body shape: Classic gourami profile—laterally compressed, oval body with long a**l fin; “feelers” (pelvic fins) used to explore

Colouration:

Wild-type is a warm honey/bronze with subtle patterning.

Domestic strains can be brighter yellow/orange/red.

Distinguishing features:

Breeding males often show a darker throat/underside (can appear charcoal/black) and stronger overall colour.

Females tend to be paler, rounder-bodied, often with a faint lateral stripe.

Natural Distribution

Native to South Asia, especially the Ganges–Brahmaputra basin region.

Commonly recorded from India and Bangladesh, with nearby regional populations reported in surrounding areas depending on source/local drainage.

Habitat

Naturally inhabits slow-moving, plant-rich waters, such as:

Floodplains, marshes, ponds, ditches

Calm backwaters and gentle streams

Often found in shallow areas with heavy vegetation and leaf litter.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 24–28°C (ideal range), can tolerate slightly cooler short-term if stable

pH: 6.0–7.5 (best kept slightly acidic to neutral)

Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (approx. 2–12 dGH is a solid practical range)

Salinity: Freshwater (no salt needed; avoid brackish setups)

Aquarium Setup

Recommended tank size:

Single / pair: 45–60 cm tank (around 40–60 L)

Small group: larger is better; more footprint reduces stress

Substrate: Sand or fine gravel; dark substrates make colours pop and help shy fish settle

Decor & planting:

Heavily planted tank recommended (stems, crypts, floating plants)

Add wood, leaf litter, caves/cover to break lines of sight

Lighting: Moderate; floating plants help diffuse light and increase confidence

Flow: Prefer gentle flow—avoid high-current layouts

Filtration: Efficient but not aggressive; sponge or well-baffled filters work very well

Air access: Like all labyrinth fish, they need access to the surface to breathe—keep the surface unobstructed and avoid excessive surface agitation.

Feeding

Natural diet: Small insects, larvae, micro-crustaceans, zooplankton, biofilm

In captivity:

High-quality micro pellets/flakes as a base

Supplement with frozen/live foods: daphnia, cyclops, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae (where safe), chopped bloodworm (not as a constant staple)

Tip: Small mouths—offer smaller foods and avoid overfeeding. They do best with small portions 1–2 times daily.

Breeding

Breeding type: Bubble-nest builder

Behaviour:

Male builds a bubble nest, often under floating plants

Courtship can include chasing—provide cover and visual breaks

Spawning notes:

After spawning, males typically guard the nest and eggs

Remove the female if she’s being harassed

Fry need very small first foods (infusoria/microworms, then baby brine shrimp)

Sexual dimorphism:

Males more colourful, slimmer, may show darker throat/underside in breeding condition

Females paler, fuller-bodied, more reserved patterning

Maintenance

Care level: Easy to moderate (easy once stable; they dislike instability)

Water change frequency:

Aim for 25–35% weekly (more if heavily stocked)

Sensitivities/challenges:

Sensitive to poor water quality, sudden parameter swings, and constant bullying

Because they breathe air, very cold drafts over the water surface can be stressful—keep a lid and stable room temps if possible.

Tank Mates

Compatible (calm, non-nippy):

Small rasboras, ember/neon-type tetras (where water matches), peaceful danios in calmer setups

Corydoras and small loaches (gentle species)

Peaceful dwarf shrimp sometimes work in dense planting (shrimplets may be eaten)

Use caution / avoid:

Fin nippers (many barbs), aggressive or very active fish that constantly outcompete food

Larger gouramis or territorial labyrinth fish in tight spaces

Boisterous cichlids or anything that makes them hide permanently

Important Notes

Best kept as: Single male with females (space permitting) or a peaceful community—avoid multiple males in small tanks.

Behavioural quirk: Shy fish that “disappear” in bare tanks; heavy planting changes everything.

Colour forms: Bright “red/sunset” strains can be stunning but may be more delicate if heavily line-bred—prioritise healthy stock and stable conditions.

Long-term success: Gentle flow, warm stable water, calm tank mates, and floating plants are the winning combination.

If you want, tell me your tank size and current stock list, and I’ll tailor a “best setup + best tank mate” version for your exact aquarium.

🐟 Species Spotlight: Trichopsis pumila (Sparkling Gourami)www.aquasnack.co.ukSpecies OverviewCommon Name: Sparkling Gour...
19/02/2026

🐟 Species Spotlight: Trichopsis pumila (Sparkling Gourami)
www.aquasnack.co.uk

Species Overview

Common Name: Sparkling Gourami / Pygmy Gourami
Scientific Name: Trichopsis pumila
Family: Osphronemidae
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, territorial toward own species in confined spaces
Lifespan: 3–5 years (with proper care)

Appearance
4

Sparkling Gouramis are small, elegant labyrinth fish reaching 3.5–4 cm (1.5 inches) in length.

They have:

Slender, laterally compressed bodies

Brown to olive base coloration

Distinctive iridescent blue-green “sparkling” spots scattered across the body and fins

A dark horizontal stripe running from the snout to the tail

Males are typically slightly more colorful and may display extended fin rays during breeding displays.

Natural Distribution

Native to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, Sparkling Gouramis inhabit lowland Southeast Asian waters.

Habitat

In the wild, Trichopsis pumila is found in:

Slow-moving streams

Rice paddies

Swamps and floodplains

Heavily vegetated ca**ls

They thrive in shallow, warm waters rich in aquatic plants and leaf litter. As labyrinth fish, they possess a specialized organ allowing them to breathe atmospheric air.

Water Parameters

For optimal health:

Temperature: 24–28°C

pH: 6.0–7.5

Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)

Salinity: Freshwater only

Stable, slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal.

Aquarium Setup

Minimum tank size: 40 litres (10 gallons)

Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel

Decor: Dense live plants, floating plants, driftwood, leaf litter

Lighting: Moderate to subdued

Water flow: Gentle

Filtration: Sponge or low-flow filtration preferred

A planted tank setup enhances coloration and reduces stress. Floating plants help replicate their natural habitat and provide security.

Feeding

In nature, Sparkling Gouramis feed on:

Small insects

Micro-crustaceans

Zooplankton

In captivity, offer:

Live foods (daphnia, baby brine shrimp, micro-worms)

Frozen foods (bloodworms, cyclops)

High-quality micro pellets or crushed flakes

They may initially be shy feeders and prefer small, slow-sinking foods.

Breeding

Sparkling Gouramis are bubble nest builders.

Males construct small bubble nests under floating plants or leaves.

Courtship includes a unique croaking or clicking sound produced by specialized pectoral fin tendons.

After spawning, the male guards the nest until fry hatch (around 24–36 hours).

Fry require infusoria or very fine live foods initially.

Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males being slightly more vibrant and territorial during breeding.

Maintenance

Care Level: Easy to moderate

Weekly water changes of 20–30%

Avoid strong currents

Maintain stable temperatures

Provide plenty of cover

They are sensitive to sudden parameter shifts and poor water quality.

Tank Mates

Compatible:

Small rasboras

Small peaceful tetras

Corydoras species

Small shrimp (with caution)

Avoid:

Large or aggressive fish

Fin nippers

Fast, boisterous species

Best kept in pairs or small groups in well-structured aquariums.

Important Notes

Males may spar in small tanks; provide visual barriers.

Their “croaking” sound is normal and part of communication.

They appreciate calm environments with minimal disturbance.

Keep tanks securely covered, as they breathe surface air.

Despite small size, they are territorial during breeding periods.

Sparkling Gouramis are a perfect choice for nano planted aquariums, offering delicate beauty and fascinating behavior in a compact form.

Have you kept Trichopsis pumila before? Share your experience in the comments.

Osphronemus goramy (Giant Gourami) – Golden Varietywww.aquasnack.co.ukSpecies OverviewCommon Name: Golden Giant GouramiS...
19/02/2026

Osphronemus goramy (Giant Gourami) – Golden Variety
www.aquasnack.co.uk

Species Overview
Common Name: Golden Giant Gourami
Scientific Name: Osphronemus goramy
Family: Osphronemidae
Temperament: Semi-aggressive to territorial (especially as adults)
Lifespan: 15–20+ years with proper care

The Golden Giant Gourami is a selectively bred color variant of the well-known Giant Gourami. While juveniles may appear calm and manageable, adults become large, powerful, and highly intelligent fish requiring serious long-term commitment.

Appearance

4

Size: Up to 60–70 cm (24–28 inches) in captivity, occasionally larger
Body Shape: Deep-bodied, laterally compressed with a broad head
Coloration: Solid golden-yellow to pale cream body; may develop darker patches with age
Distinguishing Features:
• Thick lips and large mouth
• Long dorsal and a**l fins
• Thread-like pelvic fins typical of gouramis
• Labyrinth organ allowing atmospheric air breathing

The Golden variety lacks the darker mottled pattern seen in wild-type specimens and is prized for its bold, uniform coloration.

Natural Distribution
Wild-type Osphronemus goramy originates from:
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Cambodia

The Golden form is a captive-bred ornamental variant and does not occur naturally in the wild.

Habitat

4

In nature, Giant Gouramis inhabit:
• Slow-moving rivers
• Swamps and floodplains
• Lakes and ca**ls
• Vegetation-rich freshwater systems

They prefer calm waters with abundant plant growth and submerged structures.

Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–30°C
pH: 6.0–8.0
Hardness: 5–20 dGH
Salinity: Freshwater (no salt required)

They are adaptable but thrive in stable, warm tropical conditions. Consistency is more important than chasing exact numbers.

Aquarium Setup
Minimum Tank Size: 500–700+ liters for juveniles; 1,000+ liters recommended for adults

Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
Decor: Large driftwood, strong-rooted plants, open swimming areas
Lighting: Moderate
Water Flow: Gentle to moderate
Filtration: Extremely strong biological filtration is essential

These fish grow rapidly. A small juvenile can become a massive adult within a few years. Plan for a tank upgrade early. Tight-fitting lids are recommended as they surface frequently to breathe.

Feeding
In the wild, Giant Gouramis are omnivorous, feeding on:
• Aquatic plants
• Fruits
• Insects
• Small fish
• Crustaceans

In captivity, offer:
• High-quality large pellets
• Vegetables (lettuce, spinach, peas, zucchini)
• Fruits (occasionally)
• Frozen foods
• Live foods (occasionally)

They are enthusiastic eaters and may beg for food. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and water quality issues.

Breeding
Breeding in home aquaria is rare due to space requirements.

Reproductive Behavior:
• Males build large bubble nests using plant material
• Females deposit thousands of eggs
• Male guards nest

Sexual Dimorphism:
• Males develop a more pronounced nuchal hump
• Males may show more elongated fins

Commercial breeding typically occurs in large ponds.

Maintenance
Care Level: Moderate to Advanced (due to size and waste production)
Water Changes: 30–50% weekly recommended

Challenges:
• Very large adult size
• Heavy bioload
• Potential aggression as they mature

Strong filtration and disciplined maintenance routines are essential.

Tank Mates
Compatible (only in very large aquariums):
• Large peaceful catfish
• Large silver dollars
• Other robust large species

Incompatible:
• Small fish (will be eaten)
• Slow, delicate species
• Highly aggressive cichlids

Many keepers ultimately house adult specimens alone due to territorial behavior.

Important Notes
• This is not a beginner fish.
• They recognize their owners and display intelligent behavior.
• Growth is rapid and often underestimated.
• Can become territorial and pushy with age.
• Long lifespan requires serious long-term planning.

The Golden Giant Gourami is an impressive centerpiece fish best suited for very large aquariums or indoor pond systems. When provided with adequate space and care, it becomes a bold, interactive, and rewarding species to keep.

Macropodus opercularis “Fire Ice” – Fire Ice Paradise Fishwww.aquasnack.co.ukThe Fire Ice Paradise Fish is a selectively...
19/02/2026

Macropodus opercularis “Fire Ice” – Fire Ice Paradise Fish
www.aquasnack.co.uk

The Fire Ice Paradise Fish is a selectively bred color variant of the classic Paradise Fish, prized for its intense red and icy blue contrast. It combines striking appearance with the hardy, bold personality the species is known for.

Species Overview

Common Name: Fire Ice Paradise Fish
Scientific Name: Macropodus opercularis
Family: Osphronemidae
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial (especially males)
Lifespan: 6–8 years

Macropodus opercularis is one of the oldest ornamental fish species in the hobby. Like all paradise fish, it possesses a labyrinth organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric air.

Appearance

The “Fire Ice” strain is selectively bred for dramatic coloration:

Bright fiery red/orange body tones

Electric blue iridescent striping

Strong contrast between warm and cool colors

Forked tail (longer and more flowing in males)

Elongated dorsal and a**l fins

Adult size: 8–10 cm (3–4 inches)

Males are more colorful with longer fins, while females are smaller and rounder-bodied.

Natural Distribution

The wild species originates from:

Southern China

Taiwan

Northern Vietnam

The Fire Ice form is captive-bred and does not occur in the wild.

Habitat (Wild Type)

Naturally found in:

Slow-moving streams

Rice paddies

Irrigation ca**ls

Shallow ponds

Vegetated ditches

They are adaptable and tolerant of varying seasonal temperatures.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 18–26°C (64–79°F)
(Tolerates cooler water better than most gouramis.)

pH: 6.0–8.0
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Salinity: Freshwater only

They do not require very warm tropical conditions and often show better color at moderate temperatures.

Aquarium Setup

Minimum Tank Size: 75 liters (20 gallons) for a single specimen

Recommended environment:

Heavily planted tank

Floating plants (important for bubble nest building)

Driftwood and visual barriers

Gentle to moderate filtration

Moderate lighting

Secure lid (they can jump)

A calm surface area is beneficial, especially during breeding.

Feeding

In nature, they feed on:

Insects

Small invertebrates

Larvae

In captivity:

High-quality pellets or flakes

Frozen bloodworms

Brine shrimp

Daphnia

Occasional live foods

A varied diet enhances coloration and breeding condition.

Breeding

Fire Ice Paradise Fish are bubble nest builders.

Male constructs a nest under floating plants

Courtship includes vibrant color intensification and fin displays

Male guards eggs and fry

Female should be removed after spawning

Breeding is relatively straightforward in calm, well-planted tanks.

Sexual dimorphism:

Males: brighter, larger, longer fins

Females: smaller, duller coloration, fuller abdomen when gravid

Maintenance

Care Level: Moderate

They are hardy but territorial.

Routine care:

Weekly 25–30% water changes

Stable water parameters

Avoid overcrowding

Monitor aggression, especially with males

They are generally robust and forgiving of minor fluctuations.

Tank Mates

Best kept:

As a single male

As a pair (with monitoring)

In species-only tanks

Compatible species:

Larger danios

White Cloud Mountain Minnows

Sturdy barbs

Avoid:

Small timid fish

Long-finned species

Other labyrinth fish

Multiple males in confined tanks

Important Notes

Strong personality and territorial behavior

Colors intensify during breeding

Can thrive in slightly cooler aquariums

Not ideal for community tanks with delicate species

Provide adequate space and structure to reduce aggression

The Fire Ice Paradise Fish is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking bold coloration and classic labyrinth fish behavior, combined with impressive hardiness.

Have you kept the Fire Ice strain? Share your setup and experience below.

Macropodus ocellatus – Roundtail Paradise Fishwww.aquasnack.co.uk The Roundtail Paradise Fish is a hardy, temperate laby...
19/02/2026

Macropodus ocellatus – Roundtail Paradise Fish
www.aquasnack.co.uk

The Roundtail Paradise Fish is a hardy, temperate labyrinth fish that has been kept in aquariums for over a century. Often overshadowed by its more colorful cousin Macropodus opercularis, this species offers fascinating behavior, cold tolerance, and unique beauty that make it an excellent choice for experienced aquarists.

Species Overview

Common Name: Roundtail Paradise Fish
Scientific Name: Macropodus ocellatus
Family: Osphronemidae (Gouramis and Paradise Fish)
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial (especially males)
Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care

Like other labyrinth fishes, Macropodus ocellatus possesses a labyrinth organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric air, making it tolerant of lower oxygen environments.

Appearance

This species typically reaches 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) in length.

Key features include:

Rounded caudal (tail) fin, unlike the forked tail of M. opercularis

Olive to brown base coloration

Iridescent blue-green scaling

Distinct dark vertical barring

Characteristic “eye spot” (ocellus) at the base of the tail

Extended dorsal and a**l fins in males

Males are more intensely colored and develop longer finnage, particularly during breeding displays.

Natural Distribution

Macropodus ocellatus is native to East Asia, including:

China

Korea

Taiwan

Northern Vietnam

It is notably one of the few labyrinth fishes that naturally occurs in cooler climates.

Habitat

In the wild, this species inhabits:

Slow-moving rivers

Irrigation ca**ls

Rice paddies

Flooded fields

Ponds and ditches

They are adapted to fluctuating seasonal conditions, including cooler winters.

Water Parameters

One of the major advantages of Macropodus ocellatus is its adaptability.

Temperature: 10–24°C (50–75°F)
(Unlike most gouramis, they tolerate cooler water and even overwinter outdoors in mild climates.)

pH: 6.0–8.0
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Salinity: Freshwater only

They do not require tropical temperatures and may actually thrive better in unheated setups.

Aquarium Setup

Minimum Tank Size: 75–100 liters (20–25 gallons) for a pair

Recommended setup:

Fine gravel or sand substrate

Dense planting (live plants preferred)

Floating plants for cover and bubble nest building

Driftwood and visual barriers

Moderate lighting

Gentle to moderate water flow

Standard filtration (avoid strong current)

A secure lid is important, as they can jump.

They also do very well in large planted outdoor ponds during warmer months.

Feeding

In the wild, they feed on:

Insects

Larvae

Small crustaceans

Zooplankton

In captivity, offer a varied diet:

High-quality pellets or flakes

Frozen bloodworms

Daphnia

Brine shrimp

Live insects where possible

They are enthusiastic feeders but should not be overfed.

Breeding

Macropodus ocellatus is a bubble nest builder.

Males construct nests under floating plants

Courtship involves vibrant color displays and fin spreading

The male guards eggs and fry

Females should be removed after spawning

Sexual dimorphism:
Males are larger, more colorful, and have longer fins. Females are slightly rounder-bodied.

Breeding is relatively straightforward in calm, well-planted aquaria.

Maintenance

Care Level: Moderate
They are hardy but territorial.

Routine care:

Weekly 25–30% water changes

Stable water conditions

Avoid excessive heat

Monitor aggression in confined spaces

They are robust but may become aggressive in cramped aquariums.

Tank Mates

Best kept:

As a single male

As a bonded pair

In species-only setups

With other cool-water fish of similar size and temperament

Compatible species may include:

Larger danios

White Cloud Mountain Minnows

Robust barbs (carefully monitored)

Avoid:

Small timid fish

Long-finned species

Other labyrinth fish

Multiple males in small tanks

Important Notes

Highly territorial during breeding

Capable of surviving in cooler water than most gouramis

Excellent candidate for temperate aquariums or outdoor summer ponds

May display strong personality and interactive behavior

Ensure adequate space to reduce aggression

This is a species that rewards attentive aquarists with fascinating behavior, seasonal adaptability, and a unique temperate twist on the classic paradise fish.

Have you kept Macropodus ocellatus before? Share your experience and setup details below.

Placidochromis milomo – Care, Behaviour, and Aquarium RequirementsPlacidochromis milomo, often known as the Super VC-10 ...
16/02/2026

Placidochromis milomo – Care, Behaviour, and Aquarium Requirements

Placidochromis milomo, often known as the Super VC-10 Hap, is a distinctive Lake Malawi cichlid recognised for its thick, rubbery lips and calm but confident presence in the aquarium. Native to rocky, algae-rich areas of Lake Malawi, this species uses its enlarged lips to graze on algae and small organisms from rock surfaces.

In the aquarium, P. milomo can grow to around 20–25 cm, making it a large and impressive display fish best suited to spacious setups. A tank of at least 300 litres is recommended for a single adult, with larger aquariums preferred for groups or breeding setups.

Tank setup

This species appreciates an environment that mimics its natural habitat:

Hard, alkaline water with a pH around 7.5–8.5

Temperature typically in the mid-20 °C range

Open sandy areas combined with stable rock structures for shelter

A long aquarium with plenty of swimming space is important, as these fish are active and grow quite large.

Behaviour and compatibility

Placidochromis milomo is generally considered a peaceful to moderately assertive haplochromine cichlid. It can be kept singly or as one male with several females, and it is best housed with other robust, similarly sized Lake Malawi species.
Very small fish should be avoided, as they may be seen as food.

Feeding

This species is omnivorous with a preference for protein-rich foods. A varied diet works best:

Quality cichlid pellets or flakes

Frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp

Occasional vegetable-based foods for balance

In nature, it feeds on algae, small organisms, and even fry, using its specialised lips to graze on rocky surfaces.

General care

With stable water parameters, a spacious tank, and suitable tankmates, Placidochromis milomo is considered a relatively manageable species for aquarists familiar with African cichlids. Its striking appearance and interesting feeding behaviour make it a standout fish in larger Malawi setups.

Explore more tropical fish and aquarium supplies at:
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16/02/2026

Rare Corydoras species. Peaceful, fascinating, and perfect for freshwater aquariums. Explore more tropical fish and aquarium supplies at aquasnack.co.uk.

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🔗 AquaFood.co.uk is your trusted UK supplier for tropical and coldwater fish, crustaceans, live plants, premium fish and...
20/04/2025

🔗 AquaFood.co.uk is your trusted UK supplier for tropical and coldwater fish, crustaceans, live plants, premium fish and turtle foods, and all the essentials for thriving aquariums and ponds. 🐟🌿

We proudly serve both trade professionals and dedicated aquarists, offering high-quality, responsibly sourced livestock and products at competitive prices. Whether you're building a retail inventory or enhancing your personal setup, we deliver reliability, expert support, and a wide selection — all with a clear minimum order requirement.

🌿🐟 Love Aquariums? Meet the Otocinclus Catfish! 🐟🌿Looking for a peaceful, hardworking addition to your aquarium? The Oto...
17/01/2025

🌿🐟 Love Aquariums? Meet the Otocinclus Catfish! 🐟🌿

Looking for a peaceful, hardworking addition to your aquarium? The Otocinclus catfish is a fantastic algae eater that thrives in community tanks. From diet and care to tank setup and breeding tips, we've covered everything you need to know in our detailed guide. Perfect for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike! 🌊✨

📖 Dive into the full article here: https://diapteron.co.uk/otocinclus/

💡

Let us know in the comments if you have kept these little algae champs! 🐠💬

Discover the Beauty of Badis Assamensis: Your Ultimate Guide to the Assam Banded Badis Are you fascinated by unique and ...
15/12/2024

Discover the Beauty of Badis Assamensis: Your Ultimate Guide to the Assam Banded Badis

Are you fascinated by unique and colorful freshwater fish? Meet Badis assamensis, also known as the Assam Banded Badis—a stunning species native to the northeastern India and northern Bangladesh. With its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, this small yet beautiful fish is perfect for a well-planted aquarium.

In our detailed guide, we dive into everything you need to know about keeping Badis assamensis, from their natural habitat and water conditions to breeding tips and tank setup. Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or a beginner, this article will help you provide the best care for this gorgeous species.

👉 Read the full article here: https://diapteron.co.uk/badis-assamensis/

🔑 Key Highlights:

Perfect tank setup and habitat conditions
Diet recommendations for optimal health
Understanding their peaceful yet territorial behavior
Breeding tips for success

Ideal for aquariums with slow-moving waters and plenty of hiding spots!

Address

71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden
London
WC2H9JQ

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