
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dwarf gourami
Beautiful small anabantid with red and blue stripes. Breathes air with labyrinth organ. Builds bubble nests. Peaceful and popular.
The dwarf gourami (Trichogaster lalius) is a small labyrinth fish native to the slow-moving rivers, ponds, and rice paddies of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Males display spectacular diamond-shaped blue and red patterning; females are more plainly colored in silver. Like all labyrinth fish, dwarf gouramis breathe atmospheric air through a labyrinth organ, surfacing regularly to gulp air. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.5) at 24–28°C. Generally peaceful and suitable for community tanks, males may dispute territories with conspecifics, so adequate space is needed when keeping multiple males. Floating plants such as hornwort or frogbit provide security and improve their condition. During breeding, males construct elaborate bubble nests at the surface and fiercely guard eggs through hatching. A notable health concern is Dwarf Gourami Iridovirus (DGIV), to which this species is highly susceptible — purchasing from reputable suppliers and selecting fish with vibrant coloration and active behavior helps minimize this risk. Diet includes quality flake food, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
South Asia
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
5-8cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Pellets, frozen food
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Dwarf gourami (Hamilton, 1822)
Synonyms: Colisa lalia (Hamilton, 1822), Colisa unicolor Cuvier, 1831, Colisha lalius (Hamilton, 1822), Polyacanthus lalius (Hamilton, 1822), Trichopodus lalius Hamilton, 1822
Authority databases: FishBase · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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30cm+ tank sufficient
24-28°C
Builds bubble nest at surface. Floating plants helpful
Peaceful but males compete
Susceptible to Iridovirus — buy from trusted shops
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Dwarf Gourami is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Dwarf Gourami is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Dwarf Gourami typically reaches 5-8cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Dwarf Gourami feeds on: Pellets, frozen food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Dwarf Gourami varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026