Gourami - HELP, contradicting advice

[Dana]

So i've read, researched, hit the library and asked the LFS that seems rather informed. I do try to research as much as possible before I ask stupid questions.

I have four male dwarf Gourami at the moment in a 215ltr. Seem territorial but ok. Am researching as to what their next tank mate should be.

The info I've received is...

1. Gourami's do not fare well if overfed. Keep intake minimal.

2. Gourami's may develop ulcers on their torso if not kept well fed. Feed several times per day

3. Gourami's are not bothered if planted or not

4. Gourami's require heavy planting, or will become agressive

5. Gourami's need females in groups (battle finding female dwarfs)

6. To calm agressive male dwarfs, add more males (which I did and it seems to have helped)

So yes, I'm a beginner (aside from working Dad's breeding tanks 15 years ago). I'm trying to research as best I can but what on earth are you supposed to do when you get advice that turns one from black to white?

All I want: Happy Gourami, and to know the best schooling type to add. seems easy right?? Wrong lol.

[Caryl]

1. Gourami's do not fare well if overfed. Keep intake minimal.

Not heard that one before. They are omnivores so will eat anything. They like to graze on algae and benefit from live foods along with the dried and frozen.

2. Gourami's may develop ulcers on their torso if not kept well fed. Feed several times per day

Not heard this one either.

3. Gourami's are not bothered if planted or not

A gourami's natural habitat is heavily planted.

4. Gourami's require heavy planting, or will become agressive

This can be true and will vary depending on tank size.

5. Gourami's need females in groups (battle finding female dwarfs)

No they don't.

6. To calm agressive male dwarfs, add more males (which I did and it seems to have helped)

If they are too aggressive it is possible their tank is too small or there is not enough plant cover for them to create small territories.

[SamH]

The answers are based on my experience with dwarf gouramis.

1. Gourami's do not fare well if overfed. Keep intake minimal.

Yes this is true, as with most anabantoids.

2. Gourami's may develop ulcers on their torso if not kept well fed. Feed several times per day

Gouramis will probably get ulcers from rubbing against things or fighting.

3. Gourami's are not bothered if planted or not

Gouramis will stress if there's not enough cover, be it plants or ornaments. Plants are better, the more natural the better.

4. Gourami's require heavy planting, or will become agressive

Break up their line of sight or they will become aggressive.

5. Gourami's need females in groups (battle finding female dwarfs)

One male to several females is recommended, as with most fish.

6. To calm agressive male dwarfs, add more males (which I did and it seems to have helped)

It won't lessen the aggression, just disperse it.

The best schooling type to add, something that won't nip the gouramis so harlequins or neons, etc.

HTH

[Dana]

Thank you. Much appreciated.