Gouramis

Everything about gouramis: care, suitable aquarium conditions, and compatibility. Practical tips for hobbyists.

Gouramies (family Osphronemidae) are popular freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. They range from small, colorful dwarf species to larger and more striking specimens. Many species are peaceful in nature and have unique behaviors that make them popular with both beginners and experienced hobbyists. On this page, you will find an overview of the species we cover, practical care tips, breeding information, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Characteristics of gouramis

Labyrinth organ and breathing

An important characteristic of many gouramis is the labyrinth organ: a respiratory adaptation that allows them to absorb oxygen from the air. This makes them less dependent on dissolved oxygen in the water and explains why you often see gouramis hanging out near the water’s surface.

Appearance and variation

Gouramis vary greatly in size and color. Dwarf species are often brightly colored and suitable for smaller aquariums; larger species can reach a length of 25–40 cm. Shapes vary from flat, slender bodies to more stocky types with striking fin patterns.

Behavior

Many gouramis are relatively calm, but there are clear differences between species. Males can become territorial, especially during reproduction. Some species exhibit interactive behaviors (such as the so-called “kissing behavior” in kissing gouramis) or elaborate courtship rituals when building foam nests.

Gouramis in the wild – origin and natural habitat

Most gourami species originate from Southeast Asia: slow-flowing rivers, swamps, rice fields, and mangrove-like areas with lots of plants and often somewhat cloudy water. In the hobby, this translates into a preference for calm water flow, lots of plants, and places where the animal can hide.

Water values and aquarium parameters (general guideline)

Please note: there are significant differences between species. Use the values below as a starting point and always check the species-specific recommendations on the species detail page.

  • Temperature: 24–28 °C (for many species) – some species tolerate slightly lower temperatures; tropical species often require 24-28 °C.
  • pH: 6.0-7.5 (usually soft to neutral) – soft, slightly acidic to neutral water values are appreciated by many species.
  • GH (general hardness): 3-12 dGH (soft to moderately hard).
  • Water flow: calm to moderate – the labyrinth organ and preference for the surface area make strong currents uncomfortable.

Tip: Measure pH, temperature, and ammonia/nitrite/nitrate regularly and only make major adjustments slowly.

Aquarium size & setup

Choose aquarium size based on species and group size:

  • Small species (e.g., Honey Gourami, Dwarf Gourami): from ~60 L for a pair or small group.
  • Medium-sized species (e.g., Diamond Gourami): from ~120–160 L.
  • Large species (e.g., Kissing Gourami): 250 L or more, depending on the number and behavior.

Setup:

  • Plenty of plants and floating plants for shelter and rest.
  • Open swimming space in the middle and near the surface.
  • Soft substrate and plenty of hiding places (roots, hollow pieces of wood).
  • Moderate filtration with gentle outflow (spread the outflow if necessary).

Feeding

Gouramis are usually omnivores. A varied diet is essential for color, health, and reproduction.

Recommendation:

  • Base: high-quality dry food (flakes or pellets) suitable for tropical omnivores.
  • Supplement: frozen/live food (mosquito larvae, daphnia, artemia) and regular vegetable/plant material (e.g., finely chopped spinach or spirulina tablets).
  • Feed small portions 1–2 times a day; remove uneaten food to minimize water pollution.

Compatibility and aquarium composition

General rules:

  • Combine gouramis with calm, non-aggressive species that appreciate similar water values (e.g., many small tetra species, rasboras, corydoras, some smaller danios).
  • Avoid overly aggressive or constantly aggressive species that damage fins or cause stress.

Note differences between sexes: males may challenge each other, keep males and females in appropriate ratios for territorial species or during breeding.

Specific:

  • Dwarf gouramis are generally suitable for smaller, peaceful community tanks.
  • Some species (such as the Kissing Gourami) grow large and need other tank mates and more spacious housing.

Breeding (general guidelines)

Many gouramis are foam nest builders: the male builds a nest of foam on the surface, guards the nest, and cares for the young. These are general steps for foam nest building species:

  • Preparation: separate breeding tank with soft, neutral water, floating plants, and little current.
  • Conditioning: high-quality food, live or frozen, several times a day in the run-up to courtship.
  • Nesting: once the nest is built, mating can take place; the male then guards the nest.
  • Young care: remove parents if they become aggressive; young need very fine food at first (infusoria → micro worms → artemia nauplii).

Please note: not all gouramis breed in the same way. Some Parosphromenus species and other genera have specific breeding requirements and require softer and more acidic water. Always check the species page for exact breeding instructions.

Common mistakes & how to avoid them

  • Insufficient hiding places or floating plants: this increases stress. Add floating plants and densely planted areas.
  • Too strong a current: labyrinth fish like calm water; dampen the outflow if necessary.
  • Monotonous diet: alternate between dry food and live/frozen food to prevent disease and color loss.
  • Poor water quality: change 20–30% weekly depending on occupancy; check ammonia/nitrite/nitrate levels.
  • Incorrect group composition: avoid hanging or aggressive species; pay attention to size differences.

Popular gourami species (brief introductions)

Below is a selection of commonly kept species. Use the links to the species pages for detailed water values and breeding information.

Practical daily and weekly care checklist

  • Daily: check behavior, feed small portions, remove visible waste or food residues.
  • Weekly: check water values, change 20–30% depending on occupancy, prune plants, inspect filter.
  • Monthly: thoroughly check equipment (heater, filter).

Frequently asked questions (short)

Which gourami is suitable for beginners? The Honey Gourami and some dwarf species are generally good for beginners because of their calm nature and relatively easy care.

Can you keep multiple species of gourami together? Yes, provided the species have similar water values and there is sufficient space and hiding places. Be careful with territorial males.

What is the biggest risk with gouramis? Stress caused by unsuitable tank mates, poor water quality, or too strong a current. Pay attention to these factors and take action if changes occur.

Conclusion

Gouramis are versatile and fascinating fish for both novice and experienced aquarists. With the right setup, varied diet, and attention to water quality, successful keeping and even breeding are within reach. Consult the specific species pages for detailed instructions per species.

Trichogaster lalius - Dwarf Gourami