Description
Leopard Gourami (Trichogaster leeri)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Trichogaster leeri
Common Names: Leopard Gourami, Leopard Brush Gourami, Pearl Gourami (sometimes confused)
Family: Osphronemidae (Gouramis)
Order: Anabantiformes
Origin: Southeast Asia — Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia (slow-moving rivers, lakes, and swamps)
Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 4 – 6 years
Tank Zone: Mid to top-level dweller; labyrinth fish
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 250 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Laterally compressed body with golden-beige base and dark leopard-like spots, long flowing fins in males, shorter in females.
Behavior: Peaceful and shy; males may display territorial behavior during breeding.
Swimming Style: Slow to moderate swimmer; prefers heavily planted tanks with floating plants.
Unique Feature: Labyrinth organ allows breathing air; males build bubble nests.
Nature: Hardy, adaptable, and suitable for community tanks with peaceful species.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, micro-pellets, live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae), blanched vegetables
Feeding: Small portions 1–2 times daily
Tip: Feed a varied diet to enhance coloration and maintain health
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 L) for a pair; larger preferred for multiple
Filtration: Gentle filtration with low water flow; floating plants recommended
Decor: Planted areas, driftwood, and floating plants; soft substrate preferred
Lighting: Moderate
Water Change: 25% weekly for stable and clean water
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 1 male with 1–2 females
Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, and small catfish
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species
✅ Do’s
Provide heavily planted tank with floating plants
Feed varied diet including live/frozen foods
Maintain calm water conditions
Monitor males during breeding
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep in strong currents
Don’t house with aggressive or large fish
Don’t overcrowd the tank
⭐ Quick Tips
The Leopard Gourami is a peaceful, colorful, and hardy labyrinth fish, ideal for community aquariums.
Its distinct leopard-like pattern, bubble nest building, and calm behavior make it a favorite among beginners and advanced aquarists alike.
Perfect for planted tanks with calm water and plenty of hiding spots.
