Licorice Gourami (Parosphromenus Phoenicurus)

🐠 Parosphromenus phoenicurus – The Rare Jewel of Blackwater Aquariums

The Parosphromenus phoenicurus, also known as the phoenix tail licorice gourami, is a stunning and delicate freshwater fish prized by aquarists for its brilliant red tail, iridescent body, and peaceful behavior. Native to the acidic, slow-moving blackwater streams of Southeast Asia, this species is best suited for a carefully maintained aquarium environment that mimics its natural habitat. Known for its unique courtship displays and vibrant coloration, this fish is ideal for experienced keepers seeking a peaceful, low-activity, and visually captivating addition to their aquarium.

✅ Key Features & Benefits

• Stunning Coloration
  Males display iridescent blue-green hues along their body with vibrant red tails that appear to glow under soft, subdued lighting. Females are less colorful but equally elegant, with subtle shimmer and more rounded fins.

• Peaceful & Shy
  This is a very peaceful, non-aggressive species that thrives in calm environments. Perfect for species-only tanks or with equally peaceful, non-intrusive tank mates.

• Rare & Collectible
  Highly sought after by advanced aquarists and blackwater specialists due to its rarity and striking courtship behavior. A gem for any biotope-style tank.

💧 Ideal Water Conditions

Parosphromenus phoenicurus is highly sensitive to water parameters and thrives in the following conditions:

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 3.8 – 6.0 (acidic)

• Hardness: Soft (0–3 dGH)

• Lighting: Dim or subdued lighting recommended

• Tank Size: Minimum 10–20 gallons for a pair or trio

• Substrate: Leaf litter, driftwood, and botanicals to mimic blackwater habitat

• Filtration: Gentle sponge filter or slow-flow system to avoid stressing the fish

🍽️ Feeding Habits

• Diet: Micro-predators that feed on live or frozen food

• Preferred Foods: Baby brine shrimp, daphnia, grindal worms, mosquito larvae, micro-worms

• Avoid: Flake or pellet foods, as they are often ignored

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in small amounts; avoid overfeeding in low-filtration setups

Feeding should be varied and natural to encourage health and breeding behavior.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Tank Mates

• Best kept in species-only setups or with:

  • Small, calm rasboras (e.g. Boraras brigittae)

  • Microdevario

  • Otocinclus (in well-established tanks)

• Avoid:

  • Active or aggressive fish

  • Larger tank mates

  • Bottom dwellers that may disturb the substrate or stress them

These fish are shy and will retreat from competition or bright areas, so peaceful companionship is key.

🛠️ Care Tips

• Keep lids tight — they can jump when startled

• Use Indian almond leaves or other tannin-rich botanicals to simulate natural blackwater and release beneficial humic substances

• Maintain excellent water quality; frequent small water changes (10–15% weekly)

• Breeding can be triggered with soft water, live food, and privacy—males will display vibrant colors and court females in caves or leaf litter

• Ensure dense planting or natural décor to offer shade and security

❤️ Why Aquarists Love Parosphromenus phoenicurus

This fish is not just a showpiece—it’s a living connection to Southeast Asia’s endangered peat swamp habitats. Keeping and breeding phoenix tail licorice gouramis contributes to awareness and preservation of blackwater biodiversity. Their subtle beauty, graceful movement, and complex behaviors make them a favorite among serious hobbyists and biotope enthusiasts.