Can Koi and Licorice Gourami Live Together?

Both Koi and Licorice Gourami 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.

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

Worth noting: Koi is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 Koi (6.5–8.5) and Licorice Gourami (3–6) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 4–4 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Koi and Licorice Gourami together, plan for an aquarium of at least 3785 litres with a minimum length of 300 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: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), 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: Koi 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 moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Koi and Licorice Gourami 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. Koi is an aggressive eater that may prevent Licorice Gourami from getting enough food.

Because Koi 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.