Is there romance beneath the waves, or is something else entirely at play? The seemingly affectionate behavior of "kissing" fish is often misunderstood, masking a different, more competitive reality.
The term "kissing" when applied to fish is, in many ways, a misnomer. The action, which typically involves two fish pressing their mouths together, frequently with a slight rasping or nibbling motion, is a spectacle that has captured the imaginations of aquarium enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Dive into a magical underwater moment and discover the secrets of these captivating aquatic interactions, as two beautiful fish appear to share a sweet kiss.
The intention and context behind this action vary considerably, far removed from the romantic implications often associated with the word "kissing." The behavior is most commonly observed in kissing gouramis and certain cichlids. However, the specific form of the interaction and its underlying purpose depend heavily on the species' biology, social behaviors, and the environment in which they live.
This video contains five short video highlights of some fish I saw during some of my dives this summer. Those fish that were kissing should get a room. Today we have this video of 2 pink tropical fish kissing in the tank. These two pink cichlids were kissing most of the day. Wow, that's a lot of kissing! Creating a whimsical underwater scene in your aquarium with these adorable two fish kissing ideas is a great way to spark interest, and get inspired to add a touch of romance to your aquatic paradise. Download two fish kissing stock photos, and use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights, Dreamstime is the world`s largest stock photography community.
Is kissing behavior always aggressive, or can there be instances of affection? Are kissing fish actually kissing with affection? How can I tell if my kissing gouramis are fighting, and what should I do if they are? Is it true that kissing fish only "kiss" when they are young? Can other types of fish be housed with kissing gouramis? Paul put 2 kissing gourami in a tank together with other various fish including fighters, angels, tetras and swordtails and 1 of the kissers kept chasing the other and is now so quiet and still and not eating.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Kissing Gourami |
| Scientific Name | Helostoma temminckii |
| Origin | Mainland Southeast Asia, the Greater Sundas, and nearby smaller islands |
| Appearance | Typically silver or pinkish in color, with elongated, protruding lips used for "kissing." |
| Size | Can grow up to 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) in length. |
| Lifespan | Typically 5-7 years in captivity, potentially longer. |
| Diet | Omnivorous, they feed on algae, plants, and small invertebrates. |
| Temperament | Generally peaceful but can be aggressive towards their own kind or similar-looking fish, especially during the "kissing" behavior, which is a display of dominance. |
| Social Behavior | Can be kept in groups, but its essential to provide enough space to reduce aggression, and be wary of over-crowding. |
| Tank Requirements | A minimum of 55 gallons for a single fish, and more for a group. Water temperature should be between 72-82F (22-28C). |
| Tank Mates | Peaceful community fish, but avoid keeping them with aggressive species or those that may nip at their fins. |
| Reproduction | Difficult in home aquariums; breeding typically occurs in large tanks with dense vegetation. |
| Additional Notes | The kissing behavior is often a form of competition or strength testing, and not an expression of affection. |
| Reference Website | Fishlore.com |
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) often revolve around the meaning behind this intriguing behavior. Why do fish appear to be "kissing"? Are the two fish actually kissing, or is something else at play? Is "kissing" a sign of affection between fish, or something else entirely? Is kissing a fish good luck? How do I show my fish I love them? Why are my fish staying away from each other?
When fish appear to be kissing, they are usually engaged in a strength test. "Kissing" is not typical behavior that fish engage in when courting or mating; rather, it is an act of aggression, a form of territorial display or a way to establish dominance. In an aquarium setting, it can be a sign that the tank is overpopulated or crowded, or that there is not enough food or other resources. My 2 koi angelfish are kissing each other! This is the ultimate fish makeout session. Just kidding, they're actually just lip locking. When fish lip lock, it is a behavior most closely related to establishing dominance in aquariums.
The "kissing" action is most common in certain species, particularly the kissing gourami (Helostoma temminckii). These fish, native to Southeast Asia, including regions of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, use their modified lips to scrape algae from surfaces and engage in the aforementioned "kissing" behavior. The pink variety is more common. Interestingly, fish kissing is an act where individuals either offer their lips or fingers for a particular species of fish such as parrotfish or groupers to approach them and kiss them.
Vector drawing of two fish kissing. Check out our two fish kissing selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our prints shops. Download 147 kissing fish two stock illustrations, vectors & clipart for free or amazingly low rates! New users enjoy 60% off. Add my snapchat for more memes daily! Some aquarium hobbyists may have observed this behavior in other species as well, but it is less frequent. The context is crucial when interpreting this behavior. Is the tank overcrowded? Are the fish competing for food or space? These factors significantly impact the reasons behind the "kissing" action.
How can you tell if a kissing gourami is male or female? What does it mean when two fish kiss? Do kissing gouramis eat other fish? What do kissing gouramis eat? How big do kissing gouramis get? How long do kissing gouramis live? Can kissing gouramis live with other gouramis? How do I know if my gouramis are mating?
The presence of this behavior can also be an indicator of a need for environmental improvements. In an aquarium, if resources are limited, such as food or territory, "kissing" can become more prevalent. Addressing issues like overpopulation or insufficient feeding can often reduce or eliminate this aggressive behavior. It's also important to provide ample hiding places and a balanced diet to promote a harmonious environment.
The "kissing" behavior also varies with the age of the fish. While it can be observed in younger fish, it often becomes more pronounced as they mature and compete for dominance or breeding rights. It is essential to consider the fish's life stage when interpreting this behavior.
Understanding the underlying motivations behind fish "kissing" is key to interpreting their actions accurately. Its a complex display that offers a fascinating glimpse into the social dynamics of aquatic life. Its a far cry from romantic displays.
