Gourami

Gouramis are a group of attractive, hardy freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia, commonly kept in aquariums for their peaceful nature and beautiful appearance. When people refer to a “normal gourami,” they usually mean the Three-spot Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus) or Blue Gourami, which is among the most popular types.

🔍 Appearance:

• Body Shape: Oval and laterally compressed with long, flowing fins.

• Color: Varies by type, but the common Blue Gourami has a pale blue or silver body with two dark spots—one in the middle and one near the tail (the third “spot” is the eye).

• Fins: Long, thin ventral fins that resemble feelers used for navigation.

• Size: Typically grows to 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) in captivity.

🌊 Habitat & Behavior:

• Natural Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, swamps, and rice paddies with dense vegetation.

• Behavior: Generally peaceful but males can be territorial during breeding.

• Special Feature: Labyrinth organ allows them to breathe air from the surface, so they can survive in low-oxygen water.

🍽️ Diet:

• Omnivorous: Eats insects, algae, flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and plant matter.

🛠️ Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum 80 liters (20+ gallons) for a pair.

• Water Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH Range: 6.0–8.0

• Tank Setup: Well-planted tank with hiding spots, gentle filtration, and open space for swimming.