Moderate

Pearl Gourami

By The Aquarium Calculators Editorial Team ·

Trichopodus leerii

Complete Pearl Gourami care guide covering omnivore diet requirements, peaceful temperament, minimum 30 Gallons tank setup, and compatible freshwater tankmates. Difficulty: Moderate.

Pearl Gourami

Quick Answer

Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii) is a captivating and highly sought-after freshwater species. It requires a minimum 30 Gallons aquarium with a pH of 6.0 - 7.2 and temperature range of 26-30°C. This omnivore occupies the middle zone and makes an excellent addition to community setups.

Intro

Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii) is a captivating and highly sought-after freshwater species. Known for their peaceful nature and distinct appearance, they occupy the middle levels of the aquarium and bring dynamic energy to any setup.

Setup

Pearl Gourami requires a stable, well-filtered aquarium of at least 30 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 Pearl 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

Pearl Gourami has a peaceful 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
Middle
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 Pearl Gouramis should be kept together?
Keep as a single specimen, a confirmed pair, or a small group of one male with 2-3 females in a tank of at least 30 gallons (113 liters) with a footprint of 36x12 inches (90x30 cm). Pearl gouramis (Trichopodus leerii) are peaceful labyrinth fish; multiple males can coexist in larger tanks (55+ gallons) with dense planting. Provide floating plants (Water Sprite, Hornwort) and gentle filtration. Avoid boisterous tank mates (barbs, large tetras) that outcompete them. Tank height should be at least 15 inches (38 cm).
What are the exact water parameters for Pearl Gouramis?
Target pH 6.0 - 7.2, General Hardness 3 - 10 dGH, Carbonate Hardness 2 - 8 dKH, Total Dissolved Solids 80 - 200 ppm, Electrical Conductivity 160 - 400 μS/cm, and temperature 77°F - 82°F (25°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 to enhance pearl patterns. Hardness below 3 dGH causes clamped fins.
What is the dietary and medication protocol for Pearl Gouramis?
They are gentle omnivores requiring 40% protein, 10% fat, 50% plant matter. Feed high-quality tropical flakes, cichlid granules, freeze-dried bloodworms, and frozen brine shrimp twice daily. Offer spirulina flakes and blanched peas 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) but less than Trichogaster lalius.
How to breed Pearl Gouramis with environmental triggers?
Condition a male and female with live blackworms and brine shrimp for 2 weeks. Set up a 20-gallon (75 liter) breeding tank with 6 inches (15 cm) of water (pH 6.8, dGH 5, 80°F/27°C), floating plants, and a styrofoam cup half-submerged. The male builds a bubble nest under the cup. Introduce the female; spawning occurs in 12-24 hours. Male wraps around female; 500-1,000 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.