Tony_W
New Member
I introduced a pair of Golden Gourami into a 50 gallon aquarium over a month ago. Both are about 2 inches in size. When first introduced the male was very timid. over time they are now both the most confident fish in the tank.
My concern is that in the last week the markings on the female have become a lot darker (not blackening, just the subtle stripes are darker over the top of the fish and near the head, the male also has darkened slightly) and the male constantly chases her. He appears aggressive towards her, but she does not appear hurt.
Is the female darker due to breeding cycle and that is why the male is chasing her, or is the darker colour due to stress from aggression by the male.
Is this natural or is the female in a stressful environment, would introducing a second female make the tank less stressful?
My concern is that in the last week the markings on the female have become a lot darker (not blackening, just the subtle stripes are darker over the top of the fish and near the head, the male also has darkened slightly) and the male constantly chases her. He appears aggressive towards her, but she does not appear hurt.
Is the female darker due to breeding cycle and that is why the male is chasing her, or is the darker colour due to stress from aggression by the male.
Is this natural or is the female in a stressful environment, would introducing a second female make the tank less stressful?