The Kissing Fish, scientifically known as Helostoma temminckii, is one of the most fascinating and unique species in the aquatic world. This fish has captured the attention of aquarium lovers thanks to its peculiar behavior, its distinctive physical form and its great adaptability to different environments. What makes the Kissing Fish so special? In this article we will explain everything about its characteristics. characteristics, care, eating, comportamiento and more.
General characteristics of the kissing fish
Also known as the kissing gourami, this species is the only one of the genus Helostoma, belonging to the family Helostomatidae. It is a fish that can reach up to 30 centimeters in length under ideal conditions, although in captivity it rarely exceeds 15 cmIts colors stand out for being silver, pink or ivory white, and its oval and laterally compressed shape attracts attention.
One of the most distinctive features of the Kissing Fish is its mouth, which is bordered by big, horny lips. This trait gives it the common name of "Kisser" due to its fascinating habit of "kissing" surfaces, other fish or even its congeners. However, this action is not always a display of affection, as it can be a sign of a territorial behavior or a ritualized struggle for dominance.
Distribution and natural habitat
The Kissing Fish is native to Southeast Asia, inhabiting the rivers and stagnant waters of countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sumatra and Borneo. It prefers tropical waters with temperatures ranging between 22 and 30 ° CIts natural environment includes shallow ponds, swamps and lakes with abundant aquatic vegetation and decaying organic matter.
In these nutrient-rich waters, the Kissing Fish finds a balanced diet of algae, plankton and other microorganismsThis vegetation also provides shelter and a space to reproduce, migrating within the rivers during the rainy seasons.
Unique physical characteristics
In addition to its peculiar mouth, the Kissing Fish has several anatomical features that differentiate it from other fish. For example, it has two side lines on its body, with the lower one being shorter and starting behind the upper line. Its dorsal and anal fins are long and reach the caudal peduncle.
An interesting adaptation is its intramandibular joint, which allows it to widen the angle of its jaw opening. This makes it easier to obtain nutrients from hard-to-reach surfaces, such as algae attached to the substrate. This ability is unique to its species and demonstrates its great capacity for evolutionary adaptation.
Caring for the Kissing Fish in Aquariums
The Kissing fish is ideal for large aquariums, preferably at least 100 liters. It is recommended that the aquarium be well planted, using coarse gravel as a substrate to prevent the fish from digging up the plants. It is important to include vegetation that can withstand its feeding habits, such as fern or Java moss, as this fish can feed on some plant species.
Water quality is critical to their well-being. The Kissing Fish tolerates a range of pH between 6,8 and 8,5, and a hardness of up to 30 DH. The temperature must be maintained between 22 and 28 ° C constantly, increasing slightly to 30 °C during breeding periods. In addition, it is advisable not to completely clean the seaweed from the aquarium, as they serve as a food source for this species.
Feeding the Kissing Fish
The Kissing Fish is omnivore, which means that it can feed on both plant matter and animal protein. In the wild, its diet consists of algae, zooplankton, insects and microorganisms that it finds in the water. In captivity, it is important to provide it with a varied diet that includes flakes, live foods, cooked spinach, peas and lettuce. It also enjoys the small algae that forms on glass and plants in the aquarium.
It is crucial to ensure that your diet is rich in nutrients, especially vegetables, as a deficiency in this area could lead to health problems and a reduction in their quality of life.
Behavior and compatibility with other fish
Although the Kissing Fish is generally peaceful, can show aggressive behavior towards other fish of the same species, especially during lip fights between males to establish hierarchies. For this reason, it is recommended to keep them in small groups or individually if the size of the aquarium does not allow enough space.
On the other hand, it is a species that can coexist with other community fish as long as they are of similar size and not too territorial. Avoid aggressive species will ensure better harmony within the aquarium.
Reproduction of the kissing fish
Breeding the Kissing Fish is a challenge, especially for beginner hobbyists. This species is oviparous and requires specific conditions for spawning. The water should be slightly acidic and the temperature should be increased to about 28-30 °C. It is vital to include floating plants or even Lettuce leaves to serve as a support for the eggs.
Once the female deposits the eggs, both parents should be removed from the aquarium to prevent the eggs from being eaten. The eggs float and attach to vegetation, hatching in approximately 50 hours. Fry need to be fed with infusoria and juvenile fish foods until they grow large enough.
The Kissing Fish Reaches the sexual maturity from 15 cm in length, which usually occurs between three and five years of age in optimal conditions.
Curiosities about the kissing fish
Among the most curious facts about this species is its ability to emit sounds to communicate using its auditory system and mandibular movement. In addition, in some regions of Southeast Asia, the Kissing Fish has a culinary use and is considered an exotic food. Its meat is used in traditional dishes, and the ovaries of the females are appreciated as delicacies.
The Kissing Fish is also a globally exported aquarium fish, fueling a significant trade within the ornamental fish world due to its attractiveness and unique behavior.
When choosing a fish for your aquarium, taking into account its requirements and characteristics is key. The Kissing Fish is a species that impresses with its behavior and appearance. Its proper care can give you the opportunity to enjoy one of the most amazing fish in nature.