Golden honey gourami

Gouramis – Care Guide & Aquarium Companions

Gouramis are colourful, graceful and popular freshwater fish known for their calm swimming style, attractive patterns and unique personalities. They belong to the labyrinth fish group, which means they can breathe atmospheric air from the water surface in addition to using their gills.

Popular varieties include Dwarf Gourami, Honey Gourami, Pearl Gourami, Blue Gourami, Gold Gourami, Moonlight Gourami and many more.

Aquarium Care

Tank Size:
A minimum of around 50–75 litres is suitable for smaller Gourami species. Larger varieties require more swimming space and may need aquariums of 100 litres or more.

Water Temperature:
Generally 24°C – 28°C, depending on the species.

pH Range:
Approximately 6.0 – 7.5.

Aquarium Setup:
Gouramis generally prefer calm, planted aquariums with gentle water movement.

A suitable setup should include:

• Live plants

• Floating plants

• Driftwood

• Rocks and hiding spaces

• Open swimming areas

• Gentle to moderate filtration

• Easy access to the water surface

Floating plants are especially useful because Gouramis often feel more secure in shaded areas near the surface.

Feeding

Gouramis are generally omnivorous and accept a wide variety of foods.

Suitable foods include:

• High-quality flakes

• Small pellets

• Brine shrimp

• Bloodworms

• Daphnia

• Frozen foods

• Live foods

• Vegetable-based foods

A varied diet helps maintain healthy growth, strong colour and overall condition.

Behaviour & Temperament

Most Gouramis are peaceful to semi-aggressive depending on the species.

Males can sometimes become territorial, especially toward other Gouramis or similarly shaped fish.

Smaller varieties such as Honey Gouramis are usually more peaceful, while some larger Gourami species can show stronger territorial behaviour.

Providing plants, hiding spaces and visual barriers helps reduce aggression.

Suitable Tank Companions

Depending on the species, Gouramis can usually be kept with:

Tetras • Rasboras • Corydoras • Peaceful Barbs • Danios • Small Plecos • Loaches • Rainbowfish and other peaceful community fish

Avoid very aggressive fish or persistent fin-nippers that may stress or damage their long fins.

Shrimp compatibility depends on the Gourami species and size, as very small shrimp may be eaten.

Breeding

Many Gouramis are bubble-nest builders.

During breeding, the male may build a nest of bubbles at the water surface, often underneath floating plants. The male can become territorial while protecting the nest and eggs.

A calm aquarium with floating plants and gentle filtration can encourage natural breeding behaviour.

Important Note

Different Gourami species vary considerably in adult size, temperament and care requirements.

Always check the exact variety before selecting aquarium size and tank companions.

Because Gouramis regularly breathe air from the surface, always make sure they have clear access to the top of the aquarium.

With stable water conditions, suitable companions, plenty of plants and a varied diet, Gouramis can become beautiful and engaging centrepiece fish in a freshwater community aquarium.