Gourami fish are indeed able to live without an air pump in their tank. This is because they have a labyrinth organ, which allows them to breathe directly from the air above the water’s surface. This unique adaptation enables gourami to survive in oxygen-deprived environments, such as stagnant water or ponds with low oxygen levels.
The labyrinth organ acts like a lung and allows gourami to extract oxygen from the air. They come to the surface periodically to gulp air, which then passes through the labyrinth organ and provides them with the necessary oxygen. This is why you don’t necessarily need an air pump or additional aeration in their tank.
However, it is important to note that while gourami can survive without an air pump, they still require a well-maintained and healthy environment. This includes proper filtration to ensure the nitrogen cycle is functioning effectively.
Biological filtration, also known as the nitrogen cycle, is crucial for the overall health of any aquatic animal, including gourami. In this process, beneficial bacteria convert toxic ammonia (produced by fish waste and decaying organic matter) into less harmful substances like nitrites and nitrates. These bacteria colonize the filter media, substrate, and other surfaces within the tank.
To ensure the nitrogen cycle is established and maintained, it is recommended to have a suitable filter in the tank. This filter should provide mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. The mechanical filtration helps remove debris and solid waste, while chemical filtration helps remove impurities and odors. The biological filtration, as mentioned earlier, is essential for converting toxic ammonia.
In the absence of an air pump, you can opt for a hang-on-back (HOB) filter or a sponge filter to provide the necessary filtration for your gourami tank. These filters can be effective in maintaining water quality and promoting the nitrogen cycle. Regular water changes and proper maintenance of the filter media are also important to keep the aquarium environment healthy.
Personal experience: I have kept gourami in tanks without air pumps, and they have thrived perfectly fine. As long as the tank is properly filtered and maintained, gourami can live happily without the need for additional aeration. However, it is crucial to monitor water parameters regularly and ensure the nitrogen cycle is functioning correctly.
Gourami fish can live without an air pump due to their labyrinth organ, which allows them to breathe air directly from the surface. However, it is still important to provide proper filtration to maintain a healthy environment and support the nitrogen cycle.