Gourami care 101

What are gouramis?

Gouramis are labyrinth fish — they breathe air at the surface as well as through their gills. They come from slow-moving or still waters in Asia. Popular types include dwarf gourami, pearl gourami, honey gourami, and blue (three-spot) gourami. They add colour and personality to a community tank when stocked correctly.

Tank size

Dwarf and honey gouramis: 10 gallons minimum for a pair; 20 gallons gives more room. Pearl gouramis: 30 gallons or more. Blue gouramis grow larger and need 30–40 gallons. Gouramis appreciate plants and gentle flow. Ensure the tank is cycled before adding fish. Use our tank size calculator or stocking calculator to plan.

Water parameters

Most gouramis like warm water (75–82 °F), neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.5–7.5), and soft to moderately hard water. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and nitrate low. They are sensitive to poor water quality — track parameters and do regular water changes.

Feeding

Gouramis are omnivores. Offer quality flake or pellet as a base, plus frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Some nibble algae. Avoid overfeeding; uneaten food degrades water quality.

Temperament and tank mates

Male gouramis can be territorial with each other. Keep one male per species or provide plenty of space and hiding spots. Honey gouramis are usually the calmest; dwarf gouramis can vary. Good tank mates: tetras, corydoras, otocinclus, rasboras, and peaceful livebearers. Avoid fin-nippers and very boisterous fish. See combining fish and betta tank mates for compatibility principles — gouramis are related to bettas.

Dwarf gourami health note

Dwarf gouramis are sometimes affected by dwarf gourami iridovirus (DGIV), a virus that can cause loss of colour, lethargy, and death. There is no cure. Buying from a reputable source and quarantining new fish can reduce risk. Honey and pearl gouramis are generally hardier.

Quick takeaways

• 10–30+ gallons depending on species; warm, clean water.
• Plants and gentle flow; avoid aggressive tank mates.
• One male per species or plenty of space; honey gouramis are often the calmest.