What Are They Doing?

[Netti]

I have two blue gouramis. For some reason right now as I type, they are both very dark, and are pretty much TAKING TURNS nipping on each other; one nips exceptionally hard, and then they spin around each other and the other returns the favor. It doesn't seem like fighting. What is this?

Thanx

 

[FawnN]

I'm definitely no expert, but it sounds like they are demonstrating some mating behaviour.

Better get a maternity ward set up.

 

[smallfry]

hmmmm......not sure......maybe hanky panky??? (rough love???)

 

[lmw80]

gouramis shades change depending on their mood, stress, etc.

males have a longer pointier dorsal fin and females have a shorter, rounder one...do you have a male and a female?

 

[Netti]

yeah they look to be male and female, maybe it is mating. Most likely will be unsuccessful tho; too much activity in that tank.

 

[smallfry]

Well, ya can't blame them for trying!

 

[aquazen]

Are you sure they aren't both male? Usually, the female is very dull in color. I've got 2 dwarfs, one red one blue, and they exhibit the same behavior. I think it's more a show of dominance than mating. They chase each other back and forth, but they don't nip too hard, just enough to send the other guy packing.