1 or 2 gouramis?

[mozart]

I am getting mixed info on gouramis. I hope to eventually have 2 dwarfs some day (if my tank ever settles). Some sources say they are happiest in a pair. I understand it is near impossible to get females, so I assumed it would be 2 males. Reading this site, I get the impression this is not so. Can 2 males be happy together? Can 1 be happy alone? Do I need to search for a female?

[yourchoice]

Two males is not a good number.No room for a pecking order.One will get stressed out and get sick.Four or more is okay if there is enough tank space.

[yodafett]

My wife and I have 3 in a 20 gallon (along with 7 cories), and they alternate between being fine and somewhat aggressive to each other. we're planning on adding at least one more.

[mozart]

What does it take to get a male and female?

[ct-death]

I have 2 dwarf gouramis males in my 30G for about 4 months now in a medium planted tank, 1 large cave and 2 small ones. They are aggresisve towards one another at feeding, but usually square off w/ one another and 'dance' with their feelers out. There is some fin nipping, but no damage that I have ever seen (thankfully).

I really think it is up to the individual fish (personalities). I think I got lucky. I also think it helped by creating a tank-scape which divides the tank in 2. One stays on one side (larger one by the heater) and the other stays in the caves sections.

At feeding they jostle and for an hour or so after. But after they settle down and go to their sides of the tank. I really think it helps that they cannot readily 'see' each other unless they both come out to feed/swim around at the same time.

As to your Q: Most LFS that stock Dwarf Gouramis will have both (M/F). If not, they can easily order you one - at no extra cost.

If going with 2 males, I would definately suggest a heavily planted/lots of caves in anything 30G or less.

[BucJason]

2 males don't like each other, but if you have a big enough tank they will establish thier own territory and usually stay out of one anothers way. If you expect them to swim around together and be best pals, don't get your hopes up.

[yourchoice]

My wife and I have 3 in a 20 gallon (along with 7 cories), and they alternate between being fine and somewhat aggressive to each other. we're planning on adding at least one more.

One more and i would consider that fully stocked.Along with a 20-30% weekly water change with gravel vac a quickie 10% water change (without gravel vac)mid-week can be done in under 5 minutes.