Pink Kissing Gourami

Pink Kissing Gourami (scientific name: Helostoma temminkii) is not named for its gentle demeanor, despite its romantic appellation! This species’ trade name comes from its distinctive mouth and slightly aggressive nature.

Pink Kissing Gourami, often known as kissers or kissing fish, can make an interesting addition to your aquarium. They are stunning medium-sized freshwater fish with some anatomical traits not commonly seen in the fish trade.

The species is only found on the Indonesian island of Java. They are, however, native to slow-moving ponds in Borneo, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. These fish are a major source of food for natives in many areas.

The majority of the fish in the market today are commercially bred. Kissing fish is a particularly unique species to care for, as they are not as common as other fish in the Gourami family.

The species is only found on the Indonesian island of Java. They are, however, native to slow-moving ponds in Borneo, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. These fish are a major source of food for natives in many areas.

The majority of the fish in the market today are commercially bred. Kissing fish is a particularly unique species to care for, as they are not as common as other fish in the Gourami family.

II. You would love the fish because…

Kissing gourami loves a freshwater aquarium. The kissing gourami’s mouth is its most distinguishing characteristic. Kisser fish have a forward-facing mouth rather than a forward-facing or upward-facing mouth.

The jaws of this fish are endowed with extra joints. The joints improve dexterity and movement. The joints allow the fish to extend its mouth wide, allowing it to consume more food and nutrients.

When eating or fighting, the lips appear to be puckered for a kiss!

Kissing gouramis have a conventional gourami profile aside from that distinguishing physical characteristic. Tall, deep, and thin is the body. This species is relatively thin laterally, making them very agile swimmers (and fun to observe).

The dorsal and anal fins run the length of the body. Spinous rays can be seen on all fins, including the pectoral and caudal fins.

These are brightly colored fish that come in a few distinct varieties.

Silvery green is the natural color. The soft hue is complemented by modest banding on the dorsal and anal fins.

The mottled kisser comes next. It has the same color basis as the natural variety. However, it has flecks of darker green or black to provide a mottled appearance.

The final variety is a silvery pink tint. It is caused by a genetic mutation. Because of selective breeding, this color has become very popular and widespread in the aquarist trade.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

Kissing gouramis rate as semi-aggressive.

IV. Species compatibility

Panda Corydoras, Glowlight Tetra, Kuhli Loach, Harlequin Rasbora, Bristlenose, Amano Shrimp, Dwarf Crayfish, Mystery Snail

V. How to feed this species?

Kissing gouramis are vegetarians. Rows of fine teeth graze on algae and vegetative detritus on the inside surface of the kisser’s apparent lips. To keep your kissers healthy, feed them fresh romaine lettuce, sautéed zucchini, or peas regularly.