Licorice Gouramis

All the licorice gouramis of the genus Parosphromenus that are known live in stained blackwaters. Note, however, that blackwaters aren’t really black, but a dark red-brown color, produced in part by peat-like materials but mainly by the decomposing leaves of trees and scrub that grow close to the banks. These dead leaves accumulate in multiple thick layers and release numerous substances, especially humic substances, which prevent any noteworthy population of bacteria in the water. These substances are very important to the health and well-being of the resident fishes, and often even essential for their survival.