Can Apple Snail and Licorice Gourami Live Together?

Apple Snail is a peaceful species (0/10), while Licorice Gourami is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Licorice Gourami may occasionally assert dominance over Apple Snail.

Apple Snail and Licorice Gourami both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) 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: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Apple Snail (7.2–8.5) and Licorice Gourami (3–6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

Hardness requirements are incompatible: Apple Snail needs 8–25 dGH while Licorice Gourami requires 0–4 dGH.

To house Apple Snail and Licorice Gourami together, plan for an aquarium of at least 150 litres with a minimum length of 90 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: Established Algae (Otocinclus), Shells (Breeding/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Apple Snail is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Licorice Gourami's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Apple Snail is an aggressive eater that may prevent Licorice Gourami from getting enough food.

Because Apple Snail is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Licorice Gourami receives an adequate share.