pearl gourami caudal fin

[Paul]

My pearl gourami's caudal fin is looking a little ragged - see attached photo. Is this a sign of fin rot? I don't think any other fish in the tank are nipping him.

[Rometiklan]

Hi Paul,

I'm not seeing the caudal fin very well in that pic. Are you referring to your pearl gourami's anal fin? Yes the anal fin is looking rather ragged, but that is fairly normal as a male pearl matures. I don't see it as often in the females though. The male anal fin develops these "extentions" which make the fin look pretty rough, but it is normal.

[Paul]

Hi Rometiklan,

Sorry, I meant the anal fin. Thanks for your reassurance. In fact, the reason I was concerned was that my female pearl has a perfectly smooth back to her anal fin. But now that you tell me the male's fins are different, I'll quit worrying.

Thanks.

Paul