
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Trichopodus trichopterus
An air-breathing anabantoid that probes its surroundings with thread-like ventral fins. It is hardy and adapts to a wide range of water, but mature males hold territories and temperament varies a great deal between individuals.
Trichopodus trichopterus is an anabantoid widespread in the lowland wetlands of Southeast Asia. FishBase gives a standard length of 15.0cm and a common length of 10.0cm. It favours shallow, still, heavily vegetated waters such as marshes, swamps and canals, moving from the main river onto the floodplain as the water rises and returning at the start of the dry season. It has a labyrinth organ and is an obligate air-breather that must take air from the surface. FishBase records 22-28C, pH 6.0-8.0 and 5-19dH in the wild. Seriously Fish gives 24-30C, pH 5.5-8.5, 3-35dGH and a 90 x 30cm tank of about 81 litres, and rates it among the hardiest fish in the trade. Its temperament varies, though, and some individuals harry tankmates persistently once mature. Males squabble among themselves and turn particularly aggressive when breeding, so choose robust tankmates such as barbs and larger characins. Breeding is easy: the male builds a bubble nest in a tank with lowered water and floating plants. IUCN status is Least Concern.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Three Spot Gourami grows to 10-15cm.
The ideal temperature for the Three Spot Gourami is 24〜30℃.
Origin
Southeast Asia (lowland wetlands, chiefly the Mekong basin)
Size
10-15cm
Temperature
24〜30℃
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
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.
Accepted name: Trichopodus trichopterus (Pallas, 1770)
Synonyms: Trichogaster trichopterus
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Prepared foods, frozen bloodworm, Artemia
Seriously Fish suggests a 90 x 30cm base of about 81 litres. Keep access to the surface clear for air-breathing, and floating plants near the surface help it settle.
Seriously Fish gives a wide tolerance of 24-30C, pH 5.5-8.5 and 3-35dGH. FishBase records 22-28C in the wild. It adapts readily to different water.
It is often recommended for communities, but Seriously Fish warns that some individuals harry tankmates once mature. Males squabble among themselves. Barbs, larger characins, loaches and other medium to large gouramis suit it.
In the wild it eats zooplankton and aquatic insects. In aquaria it takes dried foods readily, combined with frozen bloodworm and Artemia.
It is a bubble-nester and Seriously Fish rates breeding as easy. Lower the water to about 15-20cm, add floating plants and use gentle filtration such as an air-powered unit. The male is hard on females, so provide two or three.
Seriously Fish calls it one of the hardiest fish available but qualifies its recommendation to beginners on grounds of temperament. Never block access to the surface, as it must breathe air. IUCN status is Least Concern.
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 Three Spot Gourami is 24〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Three Spot Gourami typically reaches 10-15cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Three Spot Gourami feeds on: Prepared foods, frozen bloodworm, Artemia. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Three Spot Gourami varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026