Dwarf Gourami Care Sheet
Trichogaster lalius
A stunning centerpiece fish with iridescent blue and red stripes. Dwarf gouramis are labyrinth fish that breathe from the surface. Peaceful but can be territorial with other gouramis.
72–82°F
6–7.5
10 gallons
4–6 years
2–3.5 inches (5–9 cm)
1 male (males fight; can keep 1 male with 2-3 females)
Easy-moderate. Male builds a bubble nest at the surface. Condition with live foods. Male guards the nest and fry.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivore — flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp. Will also eat small insects from the surface.
Natural Habitat
Native to slow-moving waters in South Asia (India, Bangladesh). Found in densely vegetated ponds and rice paddies.
Care Tips
Labyrinth breather — needs access to surface air; avoid strong surface agitation
Only keep one male per tank — they're territorial with other gouramis
Susceptible to Dwarf Gourami Iridovirus (DGIV) — buy from reputable sources
Prefers heavily planted tanks with floating plants for cover
Shy at first but becomes bolder over time — give hiding spots