Can Chocolate Gourami and Lake Eacham Rainbowfish Live Together?

Both Chocolate Gourami and Lake Eacham Rainbowfish are peaceful species with an aggression score of 2/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Chocolate Gourami and Lake Eacham Rainbowfish both frequent the Top (Surface) 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.

Worth noting: Lake Eacham Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 25°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Chocolate Gourami (4–6.5) and Lake Eacham Rainbowfish (6.8–7.6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–5 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Chocolate Gourami and Lake Eacham Rainbowfish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 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: Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - lighly covered. 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.

Chocolate Gourami and Lake Eacham Rainbowfish are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Lake Eacham Rainbowfish is an aggressive eater that may prevent Chocolate Gourami from getting enough food.

Because Lake Eacham Rainbowfish is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Chocolate Gourami receives an adequate share.