Moderate

Dwarf Gourami

By The Aquarium Calculators Editorial Team ·

Trichogaster lalius

Complete Dwarf Gourami care guide covering omnivore diet requirements, semi-aggressive temperament, minimum 10 Gallons tank setup, and compatible freshwater tankmates. Difficulty: Moderate.

Dwarf Gourami

Quick Answer

Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius) is a captivating and highly sought-after freshwater species. It requires a minimum 10 Gallons aquarium with a pH of 6.0 - 7.2 and temperature range of 26-30°C. As a omnivore with semi-aggressive tendencies, careful tankmate selection is essential.

Intro

Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius) is a captivating and highly sought-after freshwater species. Known for their semi-aggressive nature and distinct appearance, they occupy the top levels of the aquarium and bring dynamic energy to any setup.

Setup

Dwarf Gourami requires a stable, well-filtered aquarium of at least 10 gallons. They thrive best with moderate water movement and a reliable heater to maintain temperatures around 26-30°C. Ensure pH levels remain consistent between 6.0 - 7.2 to prevent stress and support long-term health.

Feeding

As a omnivore, the Dwarf Gourami is not a picky eater. They should be fed a high-quality base of flakes, sinking pellets, or wafers. Periodic supplementation with frozen or live foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp, will boost their health and colors.

Compatibility

Dwarf Gourami has a semi-aggressive temperament. They are compatible with other fish of similar sizes and temperaments. Avoid placing them with aggressive species or tankmates they are listed as incompatible with, such as: betta.

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Tank Position
Top
Water Temp
26-30°C
Adult Size
See profile
Water pH
6.0 - 7.2

Species Characteristics

Adult Size
Lifespan
Growth Rate
moderate
Tank Compatibility
Community compatible
Indoor Aquarium
Yes

Water Parameters

Water Temperature
Humidity
Water pH

Tank Lighting

Tank Lighting
Standard lighting
Light Hours
N/A
Intensity
moderate

Feeding & Diet

Diet Type
Diet: Omnivore
Feeding Schedule
N/A
Live Food Options
N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Dwarf Gouramis should be kept together?
Keep one male per aquarium, or one male with 2-3 females in a tank of at least 20 gallons (75 liters) with a footprint of 24x12 inches (60x30 cm). Dwarf gouramis (Trichogaster lalius) are territorial; multiple males in under 30 gallons (113 liters) fight over surface territory, causing torn fins and stress-induced iridovirus. For a single male, 10 gallons (38 liters) is adequate. Provide dense floating plants (Water Sprite, Hornwort) and at least 2 separate surface hiding spots. Avoid with other anabantoids (bettas, paradise fish).
What are the exact water parameters for Dwarf Gouramis?
Target pH 6.0 - 7.2, General Hardness 4 - 10 dGH, Carbonate Hardness 3 - 8 dKH, Total Dissolved Solids 80 - 200 ppm, Electrical Conductivity 160 - 400 μS/cm, and temperature 75°F - 82°F (24°C - 28°C). They require calm water with minimal surface current; strong flow stresses them. Maintain nitrates below 15 ppm with weekly 20% water changes. Use a sponge filter or baffled HOB. Add Indian almond leaves (1 per 5 gallons) to boost immunity. Avoid high ammonia (>0.25 ppm), which damages labyrinth organs. Hardness below 3 dGH causes clamped fins.
What is the dietary and medication protocol for Dwarf Gouramis?
They are omnivores requiring 40% protein, 10% fat, 50% plant matter. Feed premium tropical flakes, micro pellets, freeze-dried bloodworms, and frozen brine shrimp twice daily. Offer spirulina flakes and blanched peas weekly. They are prone to overeating; fast one day weekly. Medication alert: Tolerate copper (0.15 mg/L) but sensitive to formalin. Praziquantel is safe. Avoid salt (tolerance <3 ppt). Quarantine with metronidazole for 10 days. They are susceptible to dwarf gourami iridovirus (DGIV); no treatment; remove infected fish.
How to breed Dwarf Gouramis with environmental triggers?
Condition a male and female with live blackworms and brine shrimp for 2 weeks. Set up a 10-gallon (38 liter) breeding tank with 6 inches (15 cm) of water (pH 7.0, dGH 6, 80°F/27°C), floating plants (Salvinia), and a piece of styrofoam or Indian almond leaf. The male builds a bubble nest under the cover. Introduce the female; spawning occurs in 12-24 hours. Male wraps around female; 200-500 eggs float to nest. Remove female immediately. Male guards nest until fry hatch (24-36 hours). Remove male after fry become free-swimming (day 3). Fry feed infusoria for 5 days, then baby brine shrimp.