Fish Compatible With Blue Gouramis

Blue gouramis (Trichogaster trichopterus) are family Belontiidae tropical fish who come from southeastern areas of Asia, specifically waters surrounding southern China and Malaysia. "Three-spot gourami" is another oft-used name for the species. Blue gouramis, in the wild, typically reside in wetlands, canals and swamps. They are drawn to water that is calm and slow. They also are common sights in aquarium settings.

  1. About Blue Gouramis

    • Blue gouramis typically attain 6 inches in length. Like their name communicates, they are pale blue in coloration. However, they become much more intensely blue in times of reproduction. These freshwater fish are classified as labyrinth fish, which means they can use atmospheric air thanks to their labyrinth organs. Blue gouramis can also receive oxygen through the gills like other fish.

    Other Sturdy Fish

    • Individuals of this species are extremely sturdy and tough creatures, and because of that are compatible with others like them in that respect. Do not allow them to live with particularly fierce tank mates, however. The overwhelming presence of energetic and fierce fish might just cause blue gouramis to hide away in nonstop fear. Big fish also could bring upon anxiety and stress in blue gouramis, so try to keep them with others like them in the size department. When their tank mates are around the same size, blue gouramis usually are serene in temperament.

    Compatible Fish

    • Loaches are sometimes suitable matches for blue gouramis, whether Bengal loaches (Botia dario) or kuhli loaches (Pangio kuhlii). Other tank mates that usually work well alongside blue gouramis are rainbow fish, mollies, plecos, danios, barbs and swordtails. Although they can be highly territorial with fellow members of their species, blue gouramis often are relaxed and pleasant around other appropriate fish. It is rare for blue gouramis to go truculent with other varieties of fish, but it does happen in males from time to time. When blue gouramis get aggressive with other fish, it usually is toward tinier specimens.

    Genders

    • Because of their aforementioned territorial streaks, male blue gouramis do not live well together. Never place more than one male member of this species into a single tank, as it could lead to a lot of constant battling. In spawning season, male blue gouramis frequently behave extremely persistently toward females. Make sure your females' surroundings are full of suitable spots for getting away from the male, such as driftwood and stones.