Question: How do I Sex a Gourami?
Sexing Gouramis isn't the same as sexing live bearing fish, as this reader relates in her question:
"I have recently purchased 4 Gouramis - I think they are all females. I am new to the hobby and have only experienced livebearers (they don't waste time breeding!).
I think Gouramis are beautiful and as I gain experience I might like to try breeding them. I have enclosed a pic of one of the fish which I believe to be a female. Would you have a pic of a male or advice to determine the sex."
"I have recently purchased 4 Gouramis - I think they are all females. I am new to the hobby and have only experienced livebearers (they don't waste time breeding!).
I think Gouramis are beautiful and as I gain experience I might like to try breeding them. I have enclosed a pic of one of the fish which I believe to be a female. Would you have a pic of a male or advice to determine the sex."
Answer: The photo you have included is a female. Males are usually a bit smaller than the female, and are slimmer in overall girth. Females have a rounded belly compared to the males. However, the dorsal (top) fin is the most distinctive difference that can be seen between males and females. The dorsal fin of the female is short and rounded, while the male has a longer dorsal that comes to a point.
Keep in mind that young fish are not as easy to differentiate, as the fins are not fully developed and they have not attained their adult size. The photos below may help you sex your fish. Check the profile in the Fish Library for specific information about breeding your Gouarmis. Good luck! Come back and let us know how it's going.
Keep in mind that young fish are not as easy to differentiate, as the fins are not fully developed and they have not attained their adult size. The photos below may help you sex your fish. Check the profile in the Fish Library for specific information about breeding your Gouarmis. Good luck! Come back and let us know how it's going.
