gouramis like duckweed?

[STi]

i recently got some duckweed..and it turns out its kinda messy with my aquaclear 70.but my gourami is always hanging out under it and appears to be eating some of it? its all out of tank except directly behind filter..and he hangs out nibbling on it..and protects that area somewhat...should i just keep alil patch of it behind filter?

 

[sylvia]

I use duckweed in my fry tanks and all my gouramies love having some in their tanks. Duckweed (as you will soon find out) is virtualy indestructible - even if you think you've taken it all out - some will suddenly start growing back. As long as it isn't completely covering the surface (which would hider your gourami's ability to breathe air), I would keep some duckweed in the tank as it enables your gourami to decide on and defend a suitable, natural territory and it offers security. Occasionaly, gouramies also enjoy nibbling at it though mine have never actualy consumed large amounts (I feed them lots of veggies though anyway).