Trichogaster lalius

Dwarf gouramis are probably one of my favorite fish to keep because of their stunning coloration and unique personalities. They are closely related to bettas so behavior is quite similar.


Average size: 2-3 in
Lifespan: 2-3 years
Territorial: Community,
but aggressive with same species
Diet: Omnivorous
Activness: Diurnal
Level: Experienced

Description: There are several types of gouramis, however, the dwarf gourami is one that appealed to me the most due to their spectacular coloration on the males. They have vibrant orange and blue striped patterns with iridescent tones all over their body, making it seem like they shimmer in the sunlight. They have unique pelvic fins that act as feelers and often use them to identify other gouramis in the tank as well as foraging. Males have a pointed dorsal fin tip while females tend to be a bit more round.

I consider these to be experienced fish due to their semi-aggressive nature. Males will absolutely fight each other in the same tank so it is advised that you keep one male to three females per 30 gallons.

Gouramis have a very sensual mating ritual in which they both embrace while the female releases her eggs, the male will then fertilize the area and then quickly scoop up the eggs in his mouth and place them in a bubble nest on top of the water near plants, much like bettas. The eggs attach to the leaves and bubbles and males will constantly guard their nests as well as create more bubbles to keep the eggs oxygenated. Females are known to eat the eggs so it is important that he guards it from not only other fish but his mates as well.