Bintan Licorice Gourami - Parosphromenus bintan

Bintan Licorice Gourami (Parosphromenus bintan)

The Bintan Licorice Gourami is a small and highly specialised freshwater labyrinth fish admired for its dark body colour, delicate iridescent markings and intricate fin patterning. Males can become especially striking when displaying, showing intense blue, turquoise and reddish tones depending on mood and lighting. Peaceful but sensitive, this species is best suited to experienced aquarists who can provide very soft, acidic water, subdued lighting and a quiet, mature aquarium.

Common Name:
Bintan Licorice Gourami

Scientific Name (Latin):
Parosphromenus bintan

Maximum Size:
Approximately 4 cm

Water Type:
Freshwater

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Bintan Licorice Gourami originates from blackwater habitats in Southeast Asia, where it is associated with slow-moving forest streams, peat swamps and heavily shaded waters.

These environments are typically very soft, acidic and rich in leaf litter, submerged roots and tannins.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 23–27°C
pH Range: 4.0–6.0
Hardness: Very Soft
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Kept very low and stable

Temperament:
Peaceful

Bintan Licorice Gouramis are generally peaceful but can be shy and easily intimidated by larger or more active fish.

Males may display territorial behaviour towards one another, particularly when breeding, so plenty of cover and separate sheltered areas should be provided.

Diet:
Carnivore / Micro-predator

The Bintan Licorice Gourami naturally feeds on tiny aquatic invertebrates and other small live prey.

Offer suitably small foods such as live or frozen baby brine shrimp, daphnia, copepods, mosquito larvae and other fine meaty foods.

Some individuals may be reluctant to accept dry foods, particularly when newly introduced.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 40 litres

A small but mature aquarium with dense planting, leaf litter and numerous sheltered areas is more important than overall volume.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Bintan Licorice Gourami is a calm and secretive fish that spends much of its time close to plants, roots, caves and shaded areas.

It tends to move slowly and deliberately through the aquarium rather than swimming continuously in open water.

Provide dense planting, floating plants, leaf litter, driftwood and caves to recreate a secure blackwater-style environment.

Community Suitability:
Specialist Community Fish

The Bintan Licorice Gourami is best maintained either in a species-focused aquarium or with other very small, peaceful fish that thrive under similar soft, acidic conditions.

Avoid boisterous, fast-feeding or aggressive tankmates that may outcompete or stress them.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
This species requires consistently soft and acidic water and is not suitable for hard alkaline tap water without appropriate preparation.

Stable water chemistry is extremely important, so avoid sudden changes during maintenance or water changes.

A mature aquarium with low lighting, tannin-rich water and plenty of botanical material is strongly recommended.

Leaf litter and natural wood can help create suitable cover and contribute to the blackwater conditions preferred by this species.

Gentle filtration is best, as strong current can make the fish uncomfortable.

Because feeding can be selective, ensure individuals are observed closely and receive enough suitably small live or frozen foods.

A tightly fitted lid is recommended, and warm humid air above the water surface is beneficial for labyrinth fish.

Suitable for:
Experienced

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on season and supplier.

All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.