Can African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami Live Together?
African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami are not recommended as tank mates due to conflicting pH requirements and incompatible hardness ranges. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
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Behaviour & Temperament
African Dwarf Frog is a peaceful species (1/10), while Licorice Gourami is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Licorice Gourami may occasionally assert dominance over African Dwarf Frog.
African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.
Worth noting: African Dwarf Frog is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, African Dwarf Frog is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.
The pH requirements of African Dwarf Frog (6.5–7.8) and Licorice Gourami (3–6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.
Hardness requirements are incompatible: African Dwarf Frog needs 5–15 dGH while Licorice Gourami requires 0–4 dGH.
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Tank Setup
To house African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami together, plan for an aquarium of at least 19 litres with a minimum length of 30 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.
Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.
Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters), Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami.
5 Gallon
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
Show 27 more tank sizes
Diet & Feeding
Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. African Dwarf Frog is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Licorice Gourami.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami live together?
No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.
What size tank do African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami need?
A minimum of 19 litres (tank length at least 30 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami together?
Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 27°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are African Dwarf Frog or Licorice Gourami aggressive?
African Dwarf Frog is peaceful (1/10) and Licorice Gourami is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do African Dwarf Frog and Licorice Gourami need?
Their pH requirements do not overlap. African Dwarf Frog prefers 6.5–7.8, while Licorice Gourami needs 3–6. This makes them incompatible in the same water chemistry.
Does African Dwarf Frog being nocturnal affect compatibility?
African Dwarf Frog is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches African Dwarf Frog during evening hours.
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