Pearl Balloon Gourami 1.5"

Pearl Balloon Gourami – 1.5"

Appearance & Behavior

Pearl Balloon Gouramis bring pearl-like markings and a rounded silhouette to a peaceful freshwater aquarium. This selectively bred, short-bodied form offers a distinctive look alongside the delicate feeler-like pelvic fins characteristic of gouramis. Watch them explore between plants and rise to the surface for air. Their compact body shape can affect swimming ability, so a calm aquarium with gentle current and unhurried tankmates is especially important.

Quick Care Guide

• Care level: moderate; prioritize stable water quality and careful observation of swimming and feeding.
• Temperament: generally peaceful, though gouramis may become territorial with one another, especially during breeding.
• Size listed: approximately 1.5 inches at sale, not adult size. Allow room for growth rather than choosing a tank based on the juvenile size.
• Aquarium: a roomy, planted aquarium of 30 gallons or larger is a sensible starting point; allow additional space for multiple gouramis.
• Temperature: 75–82°F.
• Water: stable, soft to moderately hard freshwater; mildly acidic to neutral conditions are a practical target.
• Diet: omnivore; offer small prepared foods supplemented with appropriately sized frozen or live foods.
• Swimming area: primarily middle and upper levels, with unobstructed access to the surface.

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Provide live plants, shaded retreats, and open swimming areas with gentle filtration. Floating plants can add security, but leave clear spaces at the surface for breathing and feeding. Use a secure lid with an air space above the water. Keep the aquarium fully cycled and maintain it with regular water changes.

Choose peaceful tankmates such as appropriately sized rasboras, small tetras, and Corydoras. Avoid fin nippers, aggressive cichlids, and fast, boisterous fish that may intimidate this slower-swimming variety or outcompete it for food. Small shrimp and shrimplets may be eaten. If keeping multiple gouramis, provide ample space and visual barriers, and monitor for persistent chasing rather than assuming every group will coexist peacefully.

Balloon-bodied fish may be more vulnerable to swimming and buoyancy difficulties. Maintain gentle current, avoid overfeeding, and watch for changes in posture, appetite, or activity.

Feeding

Offer small, quality tropical flakes or micro pellets that are easy to take at the surface or as they slowly sink. Add variety with foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and occasional bloodworms in suitable portions. Feed modest amounts once or twice daily, making sure the gourami gets its share without having to compete with faster fish. Remove uneaten food to protect water quality.

Available for in-store pickup only.