Freshwater Gouramis
Spectacular centrepiece - add a splash of colour with our wide range of Gouramis.
Gouramis are a diverse family of freshwater fish known for their stunning colours, elongated pelvic fins and calm personalities. As labyrinth fish, they possess a special organ allowing them to breathe air from the surface, giving them excellent adaptability to varying water conditions.
Gouramis range widely in size - from compact 8 cm (3”) species like dwarf gouramis to the massive 50 cm (19.6”) giant gourami. While giant species are suitable only for enormous aquariums, most home aquariums can comfortably house one of the many smaller and medium-sized gourami species.
Gourami Care
Bright colours do not mean high maintenance - gouramis are generally hardy and low-maintenance fish. However, they do have some basic care requirements: select tankmates carefully, be mindful of male–male aggression in some species, and make sure your tank environment suits their preferred conditions.
Popular species include the Three Spot Blue Gourami, Gold Gourami, Lace Pearl Gourami, Male Dwarf Gourami, Opaline Gourami and the unique Pink Kissing Gourami. All are available through our online fish shop.
Gouramis Natural Habitat
Gouramis originate from eastern and southern Asia - Pakistan to Thailand, Vietnam, China and parts of Korea and Japan. After centuries of captive breeding, many gouramis tolerate a broad range of water parameters but prefer low water movement environments.
Behavior & Compatibility
Dwarf species are generally peaceful and can be kept in pairs or small groups. Medium-sized male gouramis, however, may show territorial aggression toward other males. Mixing dwarf and medium males also requires caution.
Suitable tankmates include Corydoras catfish, Danios, Swordtails and peaceful Barbs. Avoid fin nippers, as gouramis are poor at defending themselves.
Gouramis Fish Tank Set-Up Tips
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Tank
Dwarf gouramis such as Gold Honey Dwarf Gouramis, Coral Blue Dwarf Gouramis or Dwarf Neon Gourami do best in small groups of two or more and can live in aquariums from 40 litres (10 gallons) and up.
| Recommended Max Fish Count |
Tank Volume |
| 2 Dwarf Gouramis |
40 litres (10 gallons) |
| 4 Dwarf Gouramis |
52 litres (14 gallons) |
| 6 Dwarf Gouramis |
60 litres (16 gallons) |
| 8 Dwarf Gouramis |
75 litres (20 gallons) |
Larger gouramis such as Blue Three Spot Gouramis, Gold Gouramis, Lace Pearl Gouramis and Opaline Gouramis can be kept as breeding pairs. Only combine males in large, heavily decorated tanks. Minimum tank size: 75 litres (20 gallons).
| Recommended Max Fish Count |
Tank Volume |
| 1-3 Gouramis |
75 litres (20 gallons) |
| 4 Gouramis |
80 litres (22 gallons) |
| 6 Gouramis |
110 litres (30 gallons) |
| 8 Gouramis |
150 litres (40 gallons) |
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Base
Substrate choice has little impact on dwarf gouramis, but larger species generally prefer sand.
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Foliage
If keeping multiple males, use heavy decor & plants, driftwood, rocks - to break lines of sight. Floating and drifting plants work especially well with gouramis.
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Water
Gouramis thrive at around 25°C (78°F) but tolerate 22-28°C (72-82°F). Depending on your climate, you may need an aquarium water heater.
Ideal pH: 6-8 Hardness: 10-20 dGH Use a water testing kit to ensure parameters are suitable.
They prefer slow & moderate flow and benefit from aeration using a fish tank air pump.
Maintain high water quality with regular changes (10% weekly or 25% fortnightly), proper filtration and substrate cleaning using gravel vacuums. Use appropriate water conditioners when adding tap water.
Feeding and Care
Gouramis are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet. Most flake foods meet their needs, but they appreciate floating or slow-sinking foods. Supplement their diet with occasional live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Explore our full range of fish food options for suitable feeding choices.
Great Reasons to Keep Gouramis
- Gouramis are colourful, elegant fish with distinctive pelvic fins.
- They generally get along well with peaceful tankmates.
- They make excellent centrepiece fish for small-mid-sized aquariums.
Gouramis can be some of the best fish for pets. Whether you prefer a compact species like the Dwarf Neon Gourami or a larger species like the Gold Gourami, you'll find a great selection ready for fast delivery across Australia.
