
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Trichopsis pumila
A small gourami with jewel-like sparkle. Unusual fish that makes croaking sounds.
The sparkling gourami (Trichopsis pumila), also known as the pygmy gourami, is a tiny labyrinth fish native to shallow rice paddies, swamps, and wetlands across Thailand, Vietnam, and the Malay Peninsula. At 3–4 cm, it displays an understated beauty: a dark brownish-gray body scattered with fine iridescent blue-green spots that sparkle brilliantly under aquarium lighting — living up to its evocative common name. Among its most remarkable traits, the sparkling gourami is one of the very few fish capable of producing audible sounds: during courtship and territory disputes, males emit a distinctive 'croaking' clicking sound by vibrating the pectoral fin tendons. Like all labyrinth fish, they breathe atmospheric air. Despite their peaceful temperament, their small size and shy nature make them easily overwhelmed by larger or more boisterous fish; quiet community setups with micro fish are ideal. Diet consists of small frozen foods and micro pellets. Males build bubble nests for breeding.
The Sparkling Gourami lives 3-5 years.
The Sparkling Gourami grows to 3-4cm.
The ideal temperature for the Sparkling Gourami is 24〜28℃.
Soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0) at 24–28°C is optimal, with floating plants providing security.
Origin
shallow wetlands and rice paddies of Thailand, Vietnam, and the Malay Peninsula
Lifespan
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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3-5 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
24〜28℃
Pellets, Frozen food
It prefers 24-28°C and soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0). It breathes air with its labyrinth organ, so keep the surface accessible.
A calm, heavily planted setup suits it. Floating plants add security and serve as anchors for bubble nests when breeding.
Peaceful but shy and easily intimidated by larger fish, so keep it with calm species of similar size.
It favours fine foods, frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp. The mouth is small, so offer finely sized food in small amounts.
When breeding, the male builds a bubble nest at the surface anchored to floating plants. Males croak during the breeding season.
Croaking sounds may be heard
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 Sparkling Gourami is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Sparkling Gourami is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Sparkling Gourami typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Sparkling Gourami feeds on: Pellets, Frozen food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Sparkling Gourami varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026