Description
Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius
Family: Osphronemidae
Origin: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan
Size: 2 – 3 inches (5 – 7.5 cm)
Lifespan: 4 – 6 years
Tank Zone: Mid-water
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 200 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Brightly colored, with males often red, blue, or turquoise; females paler.
Peaceful, shy, and ideal for community tanks.
Slow swimmers; prefer calm water and plants for cover.
Males may display mild territorial behavior.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, pellets, and live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms).
Feeding Schedule: 2 small meals per day; avoid overfeeding.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a single pair; larger for multiple fish.
Filtration: Gentle flow; Dwarf Gouramis dislike strong currents.
Decor: Dense plants, floating plants, and hiding spots; open swimming space.
Water Changes: 25% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
Peaceful; do best in groups with one male per tank or as a pair.
Avoid aggressive species.
✅ Do’s
Keep plenty of plants to mimic natural habitat.
Maintain clean water to avoid disease.
Male-female pair is ideal for breeding.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep multiple males in a small tank; may fight.
Avoid strong currents.
Don’t overcrowd the tank.
⭐ Quick Tips
Hardy, colorful, and beginner-friendly.
Active mid-water swimmer; adds bright color to planted aquariums.
