Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
A stunning centrepiece fish for smaller tanks. Males display vivid alternating stripes of iridescent blue and flame-red. Labyrinth breathers — they can gulp air from the surface. Gentle and perfect for planted community tanks.
Buy Dwarf Gourami →Quick Facts
Water Parameters
Natural Habitat
Slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters — rice paddies, ponds, and ditches across the Indian subcontinent.
South Asia
India, Bangladesh, Pakistan
Feeding
Omnivorous. Accepts flake, pellets, frozen foods. Will eat small surface insects and algae.
Compatible Tank Mates
Good Matches
Avoid
Breeding
Bubble nest builder like Bettas. Male constructs elaborate nest among floating plants. Relatively easy to breed.
Care Tips
Males can be territorial — keep one per tank unless 40+ gallons
Floating plants encourage natural behaviour
Susceptible to Iridovirus — buy from reputable sources
Colour morphs: Powder Blue, Flame, Neon Blue
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