Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys osphromenoides) isn't really recommended fish species for most tanks due to its exceptionally shy nature and particular water requirements. It can be maintained quite successfully in a well-planted aquarium, softwater tank but to see it at its best a natural-style set-up is preferable. Despite not being particularly representative of its natural waters a soft, sandy substrate is probably the best choice here not least because it would be impossible to accurately simulate a peat swamp habitat in an aquarium! Add a few driftwood roots and branches, placing these in such a way that a few shady spots are formed.
Feeds on various insects, zooplankton and occasionally the fry and other fish in nature. In some experience of keeping tropical fish, the Chocolate Gourami species is almost as anxious to feed as often reported, although it seems that food is best when you offer regular meals of small live foods such as Daphnia or Artemia. These are especially useful when acclimatizing new imported specimens or device for raising fish. Frozen alternatives are perfectly acceptable in most cases, even the dry foods are often taken without any fuss. If your Sphaerichthys osphromenoides refuses to eat the problem probably lies in the water conditions, although wild-caught fish are known to harbor internal parasites or other bugs on occasion.
