Gouaramis need heaters?

kathstew

So, I have two gouramis ( a dwarf and a Honey Gourami) and I currently have a heater in with them. Do you think they need it?
Gouramis ideal water temp is 72-82F. and without the heater its already at 75+*

LasColinasCichlids

Heaters provide a constant temp, where as without it can vary, and a fluctuating temp is bad on fish's health. Plus if the water is closer to 78F, the less chance of some diseases, like ich.

BarbH

I would keep the heater in there. If there is a fluctuation in the outside temperture it will have an effect on the temp of the water. Also during the winter unless you are keeping the room temp above 72 the water temp is going to drop. I have a heater in my 50 gallon which does come on during the night even with the warmer temps that we have been having. I like to keep my windows open and the cool air can lower the temp in the aquarium. If it was me I would keep the heater in there, it is better to have peace of mind if it is needed than not to have it in there and wake up one morning to find that the water temp in the aquarium got to cold.

Garfisher

I keep my chocolates in a tank with no heater, they have been fine with it (even did fine when I accidentally forgot to turn the heat on in my room and temps dropped down to almost 60°F).

Inga

I would vote to keep the heater in the tank as well. There is a difference between surviving and being comfortable. A constant temperature is certainly more comfortable then one that jumps up and down and certainly more comfortable then if it hits extreems.

Beaches

I agree with the others and also suggest keeping the heater on. I do think they need one, not only to avoid sudden/dramatic temp. fluctuations, but to create humidity between the water surface & tank lid, which Anabantoid fish benefit from, they can catch chills and dry air can damage the labyrinth organ (but this may be moreso in fry when the organ is developing).