Nagy’s Licorice Gourami

Pictures of fish and fish in store may vary, these are just examples/fully grown fish

Nagy’s Licorice Gourami

Scientific Name: Parosphromenus nagyi
Common Names: Nagy’s Licorice Gourami, Blackwater Licorice Gourami
Origin: Peninsular Malaysia – peat swamp forests
Adult Size: 1.2–1.4 inches (3–3.5 cm)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, territorial during spawning
Swimming Zone: Bottom to midwater

Sales Description

Nagy’s Licorice Gourami is one of the most stunning and sought-after members of the Parosphromenus genus, known for its jet-black fins adorned with electric blue, green, or red accents depending on the population and mood. This small labyrinth fish thrives in soft, acidic blackwater setups and is prized among advanced aquarists for its subtle beauty, complex breeding behavior, and iridescent shimmer under soft lighting.

Unlike many larger gouramis, Parosphromenus nagyi is delicate and best kept in species-only or highly specialized community aquariums. When kept properly, males exhibit breathtaking color displays, especially during courtship. This fish is a jewel of the blackwater world and a centerpiece for hobbyists invested in biotope or softwater setups.

Care Guide

Nagy’s Licorice Gouramis require pristine conditions, soft acidic water, and a calm, densely structured tank. They thrive in water temperatures between 74–80°F (23–27°C) with a pH between 3.5 and 5.5, often achieved using Indian almond leaves, peat, or alder cones to naturally soften and acidify the water. Carbonate hardness should be near zero. Frequent small water changes using preconditioned, mineral-free water help keep parameters stable.

Their tank should mimic their natural peat swamp habitat—dim lighting, a dark substrate, leaf litter, floating plants, and plenty of hiding spots such as driftwood, coconut caves, and root tangles. These elements not only help reduce stress but encourage natural behaviors and successful breeding.

Feeding Nagy’s Licorice Gouramis can be challenging for beginners, as they often reject prepared foods. A diet of live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, grindal worms, daphnia, and blackworms is essential. Microworms or vinegar eels can also be used for juveniles or conditioning. With patience and consistent care, they may accept frozen alternatives, but live foods are preferred for long-term health and successful spawning.

These gouramis are shy and slow-moving, so tankmates must be carefully chosen, if any. In most cases, a species-only setup is best. If housed with others, select peaceful, non-competitive microfish or shrimp that won’t outcompete them for food or disturb their delicate nature.

Breeding Notes

Nagy’s Licorice Gouramis are bubble-nest breeders that display fascinating spawning behavior. Males construct bubble nests in caves or under leaves and engage in elaborate courtship displays. Once spawning occurs, the female lays eggs inside the nest and the male takes over parental care. Fry hatch after 24–36 hours and remain in the nest until free-swimming. Raising fry requires infusoria, vinegar eels, or green water initially, followed by baby brine shrimp. Soft, acidic water and minimal disturbance are critical during the breeding process.