Three spot gourami
Trichopodus trichopterus
Can become dominant as an adult; blue and gold forms belong to this species too. A labyrinth fish that also breathes air at the surface. Provide cover and unobstructed surface access.
At a glance
- Scientific name
- Trichopodus trichopterus
- Dutch name
- Blauwe goerami
- Water temperature
- 24–30 °C
- pH
- 5.5–8.5
- Adult length, up to approximately
- 15 cm SL
- Experience
- Basic knowledge
- General hardness (GH)
- 3–35 °dGH
- Starting footprint
- 120 × 40 cm
- Swimming or living zone
- Upper water
- Flow
- Gentle, with adequate oxygen
This is a documented adult size, not a measured average. SL means body length excluding the tail fin. Sex, origin and cultivated form can affect size.
Care guidance; origin and captive breeding can change requirements. Some ranges are deliberately narrower than natural extremes in the source. Adjust water gradually and keep ammonia and nitrite at zero.
Tank sizes are editorial starting points for adults, not guarantees for a complete stocking plan. Group size, tank height, swimming length and territories may require a larger aquarium.
Origin
Asia — Mekong
Habitat & setup
Vegetated freshwater habitats; provide plants and quiet refuges.
Diet
Varied fine pellets or flakes, supplemented with suitable frozen or live food.
Behaviour & grouping
Plan separate territories; an arbitrary pair may still fight.
Living with other animals
Calm fish outside the bottom territory with matching water needs. Even usual companions may be chased during brood care.
Reproduction
Bubble-nest builder; breeding needs a separate calm approach and very fine fry food.
A suitable cover helps prevent escape and jumping. Protect intakes for small animals. Do not use copper-based fish medication with invertebrates.
Sources & image credits
Data compiled on: 2026-09-27. Species sources support identity and care; group sources give general starting points. Practical recommendations are an editorial synthesis.
Photo: Trichogster_trichopterus_13.jpg — Gourami Watcher. CC BY-SA 3.0.