Species profile
Licorice Gourami
Parosphromenus deissneri
Semi aggressive
Hard care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
The common name 'licorice gourami' is used broadly for Parosphromenus. True P. deissneri is a specific Bangka endemic, so provenance matters and generic trade fish should not automatically be labelled this species.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
3–6.5
GH
0–4 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.5
Males defend small cave territories, but the species is not suited to boisterous aggressive communities. Specialist species/group housing is preferable.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
3–5 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Parosphromenus deissneri
Alternative names
Licorice Gourami, Deissner's Licorice Gourami
Native range
Indonesia, Bangka Island.
Natural habitat
Very soft, acidic blackwater specialist. Use dim light, leaf litter, roots, floating cover and many tiny caves with almost no current. Mature, biologically stable water is essential.
Diet & feeding
Tiny live/frozen invertebrates are the safest staple: Artemia nauplii, daphnia, cyclops, mosquito larvae and similar foods. Many individuals do not thrive on dry food alone.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males develop more intense iridescent fin patterning; females are generally plainer, though condition and lighting influence colour strongly.
Breeding
Cave spawner. The male courts and guards eggs/larvae in a tiny cave. Extremely soft acidic water and low disturbance are normally required.