Gourami Kuhli Loach Compatibility

Question
I am setting up a 10 gallon tank and am looking for suitible tank mates. I am planning on adding 3 dwarf gourami (either 3 females or 1 male and two females); the tank will be heavily planted (silk) with a dark sandy substrate mixed with pea grade pebbles (smooth not coarse) and some driftwood and cobble stones. I use a whisper EX20 and am in the habit of doing 15% to 20% water changes on a weekly basis with a 50% change once a month. I would like to add one or two kuhli loaches (in case the one needs a buddy) but am concerned with final growth (4 in) and overall tank happiness.  Your insight into this will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Jason,

I've never been able to find female dwarf gouramis, but if you can then that's great. The males are somewhat territorial so it would be best to limit it to one or none. Do keep an eye on them as dwarf gouramis are prone to Dwarf Gourami Disease, an iridovirus. The symptoms start vague with a lack of appetite and off behavior, then progress to wasting and ulcers. It's really a nasty virus, and it's estimated that anywhere from 20% to 33% of dwarf gouramis in the trade are infected. My favorite gourami for 10 gallon tanks is the sparkling gourami, Trichopsis Pumila. They can be difficult to find, but worth a look!

In my opinion, mature kuhli loaches need at least a 24" long tank - a 15 gallon long. Because they get 4" and are so active, a 10 gallon tank seems too small for them to me. However, there are many reports of people keeping them in 10 gallon tanks, so you could try it. It's difficult to find bottom dwellers suitable for 10 gallon tanks. There are a few species of dwarf or pygmy Corydoras, then there are shrimps of course, and maybe snails, but not much else.

If you do try it, get more than 2, however - at least 3, with 6 being ideal. Typical of loaches, they are very social with one another. They will be out more and behave more naturally if they have several of their own kind in the tank. They will tangle up together and be more active during the day. I would consider keeping 4 or so.

Your substrate sounds perfect for them. Make sure the sand is not sharp, some sand is not suitable for burrowers. Research the brand and type of sand online first, and look on the packaging to see if it says "burrower safe" - companies like CaribSea have a helpful hotline you can call to ask them further questions about the sand.

I hope that helps! Take care.
Nicole