Do Kissing Fish "Kiss" ?

Gouramis are freshwater fish that belong to the family Osphronemidae, which consists of around fifteen genera with more than 95 species.

One such specie is the kissing gourami (Helostoma temminckii), which is the single species of the genus Helostoma in the family Helostomatidae. In fact, it is the sole species of this family and is otherwise known as the kisser or kissing fish. 

Kissing gouramis are so named for their lip-locking activity.

Kissing fish are sometimes found to lock their lips with other members of the species. You may also find them kissing other types of fish, plants, and objects in the tank, while feeding or bullying. While there are various instances of animals displaying human behavior, what is the truth behind the 'kiss' of this fish? Why do kissing fish kiss? 

Kissing gourami is a fish with fleshy, pouting lips, which is its characteristic feature. Compared to most of the other gouramis, this fish has a terminal mouth that can be protruded. Even the name of the family Helostomatidae is derived from this feature. Though the lip-locking act of these fish may appear as kissing, it is certainly not a display of love and affection, as in case of humans. It has been suggested that their lip-locking is a sign of fight for dominance. It usually happens in young males, who want to defend their territory or feeding areas. Such aggressive behavior is also seen during breeding season, to attract females.

In short, kissing fish do not kiss and display their love. What appears to be a kiss is actually a fight for dominance, in males. However, it is this feature that is responsible for the popularity of kissing gourami, which is commonly raised in aquariums.

Question & Answer

LOBSTER FACTS

What is the largest lobster ever caught?

The Massachusetts Lobstermen's association claimed a record when they caught “Big George” in 1974 off Cape Cod. The lobster weighed 37.4 pounds with a total length of 2.1 feet.

How does a lobster grow?

Lobsters grow by molting. This is the process in which they struggle out of their old shells while absorbing water, which expands their body size. This molting, or shell-shedding, occurs about 25 times in the first 5–7 years of life. Following this cycle, the lobster will weigh approximately one pound. It may then only molt once per year and in-crease about 15% in length and 40% in weight. They can grow to be 3 feet or more.

How many times must a lobster molt before it reaches market size?

Between 20 and 30 molts take place before a lobster reaches the one-pound market size.

How old is a one-pound lobster?

No one knows exactly, but aquarium studies suggest 5 to 7 years.

How many one-pound lobsters are needed for a pound of lobster meat?

Five, on the average.

Can a lobster be kept alive in fresh water with ice?

No. Fresh water is lethal to a lobster. The animal has salty blood and tissue, which require a seawater environment if life is to be maintained.

Can lobsters grow new legs?

Yes. Lobsters have the ability to regenerate some of their body parts, for example, the

claws, walking legs, and antennae.

Do many young lobsters survive to old age?

Lobster babies swim at water surface for 25 days. Only one percent make it to the bottom. These young lobsters shed their shells about ten times in their first year. A near-shore lob-ster has a 90% chance of ending up on someone's dinner plate.