How many could I fit comfortably

[deonild]

I've read that Gourami's should be kept in groups of 1 male per 2 females. Are they easy to sex at a young age at say a petco/petsmart?

Would 3 three spot gourami's be too much for a 30 gallon long with maybe 6 neon tetra?

Also considering dwarf gourami species-only setup, how many could I have in the 30 gallon long. I have good filtration (rated for 45 gallons), but would get a 2nd filter if that would be a concern.

Another thought - I have live plants: 3 wisteria, 3 amazon sword, a crypt, an anubias, and a small patch of micro sword. However, the wisteria and amazon sword which will be tall, are only about 5" atm. I have black construction paper covering the back and 1 side. I don't really want floating plants even though I have 2.6 watts per gallon. And I have 2 props that are caves, but will the short plants not be enough "cover" and the gourami's will most likely be too stressed?

[VoidParadigm]

Some people have success in keeping more than one 3-Spot together, other people do not. If they spawn be prepared to seperate them as the males might even kill the females to stop them from eating the eggs.

As for the sexing - I thought my Golden 3-Spot was male until just recently when she hit 3 inches and her dorsal(?) fin rounded out more and her belly started swelling where her eggs would be. I suggest really, really researching and training yourself at recognizing male/females so you do get what you want.

As for the number in the tank? I'd personally only add one, and then get some other small species so that the gourami is like a center fish. I don't know how many you could put in that size, though. Sorry. =o

Good luck with the future tank!

[rich311k]

I would get just one. Even the females can get testy. One will make a great centerpeice.

[deonild]

Ok then :P back to my original plan in that case.