Pearl Gouramis-more Males Or More Females And How Many?

[lillykinloo]

I am new to the aquarium scene, and am in the beginning stages of setting up my tank. I have a 37 gallon Eclipse "show tank." Since this is my first fish tank, i chose to go with fake plants. The aquarium has a dark gravel substrate and several plants around the tank with an open swimming area in the middle. One of the plants floats on the top to provide shelter from the flourescent lighting. There is a piece of driftwood and an upright log with holes and caves for hiding and exploration. When I set up my tank and added gravel, plants, and decorations, we measured and we were really only able to pour about 30-31 gallons of water in the tank (not 37).

Right now, my tank is the process of cycling. I haven't decided exactly what I am going to put in the tank yet, but I expect the Pearl Gourami to be the highlight of my new aquarium. So far, I have 5 diamond tetras in the tank, and that's it. I will not add any other fish until the tank has completed its cycling. But, after the cycling is complete, I want to add the Pearl Gouramis.

What is the maximum number of Pearl Gouramis that would be comfortable in my tank?
Is it safe to get all male Pearl Gouramis? (I am not equipped to breed fish, so this is not a consideration for me.)
If not, how many male and how many females should I keep?

Any help that you can offer is greatly appreciated! Cheers!

 

[sylvia]

The ideal number would be 3-4 - 1 male, 2-3 females. That way they have enough room to get away from each other if necessary but also have the opportunity to be social. Just keep in mind that 4 pearls will fill about half your tank's capacity for fish.

 

[lillykinloo]

The ideal number would be 3-4 - 1 male, 2-3 females. That way they have enough room to get away from each other if necessary but also have the opportunity to be social. Just keep in mind that 4 pearls will fill about half your tank's capacity for fish.

Thank you sylvia! That sounds perfect! I was hoping that I could have more than 1 pearl gourami in my tank. And, I think 3-4 will make a really nice focal point for the aquarium and allow them to have some much needed companions!