Blue gourami - Trichogaster trichopterus

Scientific name: Trichogaster trichopterus

Common name: Blue gourami

Family: Osphronemidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 13 cm (3.94 - 5.12 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Origin

The Blue Gourami (Trichogaster trichopterus) is native to South East Asia, found in slow-moving rivers, swamps, and ponds in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. These areas provide the warm, calm waters with dense vegetation that suit the species. Blue Gouramis are now bred widely in captivity and have become popular aquarium fish worldwide.

Lifespan

With proper care and ideal water conditions, the Blue Gourami can live for 5 years or more. Consistent water quality and a balanced diet are essential for their well-being and longevity.

Short Description

The Blue Gourami is an eye-catching fish and an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. This species is a color variant of the Three Spot Gourami, known for its beautiful blue coloration, which can intensify during breeding. As a member of the Labyrinth fish family, the Blue Gourami has a special organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric air, making it adaptable to low-oxygen environments.

The Blue Gourami is active and often seen swimming at all levels of the aquarium, occasionally rising to the surface for air. To protect their labyrinth organ, ensure the room temperature remains stable and doesn't drop too low. Juveniles are peaceful, but as they mature, they may become territorial and show aggression towards smaller tank mates. It’s best to house them with fish of similar size and temperament.

Feeding

The Blue Gourami is an omnivorous species that enjoys a varied diet. Offer a quality flake or pellet as their staple food, while supplementing their meals with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and white worms. They also benefit from vegetable matter like blanched spinach, lettuce, or chopped cucumber. Feed them small portions once or twice daily, and avoid overfeeding.

Sexing

Male and female Blue Gouramis are easy to distinguish. Males possess a longer, pointed dorsal fin, while females have a shorter, rounded dorsal fin. Males also tend to be more colorful, especially during breeding.

Breeding the Blue Gourami

Breeding Blue Gouramis is relatively straightforward. They are bubble nest builders. The male creates a nest at the water’s surface, often using floating plants. Once the nest is complete, the male will court the female, displaying his colors and enticing her to the nest.

During spawning, the male wraps himself around the female, and eggs are released into the nest. After spawning, it is crucial to remove the female from the tank, as the male will become aggressive and may harm her. However, if the tank is large enough, at least 90 liters (approximately 24 US gallons, 19.8 Imperial gallons), and provides numerous hiding spots, such as caves or dense plants, the female may not need to be removed. She can seek refuge from the male’s aggression.

The male will guard the eggs, which hatch in 2-3 days. Once the fry are free-swimming, it is advisable to remove the male as he may eat the fry. However, if the tank has sufficiently dense vegetation that offers ample cover, it may not be necessary to remove the male, as the fry will have places to hide. If the vegetation is not dense enough, you should also remove the female once the fry become free-swimming to prevent her from preying on them.

The fry should be fed on infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp to ensure healthy growth.