A stunning nano species known for its iridescent blue/green eyes, body spots, and ability to make audible 'croaking' sounds. Unlike many anabantoids, they are social and best kept in groups. However, they are efficient micropredators that will hunt shrimp fry and pests like hydra. Requires stable water parameters and dense planting.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard form found in the aquarium trade. Must be kept in groups to feel secure. In groups, they establish a pecking order and display interesting social behaviors, including auditory communication.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Top Tank Mates
Bristlenose Pleco
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesBolivian Ram
Mikrogeophagus altispinosus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesSeverum
Heros severus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesRoyal Pleco (L190)
Panaque nigrolineatus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesSparkling Gourami Care Guide Summary
The Sparkling Gourami, scientifically known as Trichopsis pumila, belongs to the Anabantoids family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 4 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the surface, mid-level, and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Sparkling Gourami requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 5–7.5 and a general hardness of 5–18 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Sparkling Gourami is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The Sparkling Gourami is typically available in one standard form.
Sparkling Gourami Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Sparkling Gourami, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the surface, mid-level, and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline, open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement, and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat, dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress, and floating plants to diffuse overhead light and create shaded areas.
Sparkling Gourami Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Sparkling Gourami is a social species that requires the company of its own kind to thrive. When choosing tankmates, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions and conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the surface, mid-level, and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Sparkling Gourami.
10 Gallon Standard
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
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Sparkling Gourami Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Sparkling Gourami will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups and will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed. Find quality Sparkling Gourami fish food for this species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sparkling Gourami
How big does Sparkling Gourami get?
Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis pumila) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 4 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Sparkling Gourami need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm are recommended for Sparkling Gourami. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Sparkling Gourami need?
Sparkling Gourami thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 5 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 5–18 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Sparkling Gourami peaceful or aggressive?
Sparkling Gourami is classified as mostly peaceful with an aggression score of 3 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Sparkling Gourami live alone?
No, Sparkling Gourami should be kept in groups of at least 4 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.
Is Sparkling Gourami safe with shrimp?
No. Sparkling Gourami is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Does Sparkling Gourami have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Sparkling Gourami benefits from plants - densely covered, plants - floating, and leaf litter/blackwater in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Similar Species
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline)
Trichopodus trichopterus
A robust, semi-aggressive labyrinth fish available in many color morphs (Blue, Gold, Opaline). Biologically, they are all the same species. Unlike the peaceful Pearl Gourami, Three Spots are boisterous and can be bullies. They are excellent for 'semi-aggressive' community tanks (e.g., with Tiger Barbs, large Tetras) but may harass shy or long-finned fish.
Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye
Pseudomugil gertrudae
A stunning, highly active nano fish native to Australia and New Guinea. Known for their striking blue eyes and the males' spectacular, heavily spotted fins which they flare during dominance displays. They are peaceful but require being kept in shoals to thrive and exhibit natural behaviors.
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
A peaceful to semi-aggressive labyrinth fish native to South Asia. Famous for their brilliant metallic blue and red stripes. While generally suitable for community tanks, males are territorial toward each other and similar-looking fish. They are sensitive to water quality and prone to Iridovirus if stressed. Requires access to the surface to breathe.
Honey Gourami
Trichogaster chuna
The smallest and most peaceful member of the Trichogaster genus. Ideally suited for planted nano aquariums. Unlike the aggressive Dwarf Gourami (*T. lalius*), Honey Gouramis are timid and gentle. True Honey Gouramis rarely exceed 5cm. Note: Many bright red fish sold as 'Red Honey' or 'Red Robin' are actually Thick-lipped Gouramis (*T. labiosa*), which grow larger.
Pearl Gourami
Trichopodus leerii
Widely considered the most beautiful and peaceful of the large Gouramis. They feature a 'mosaic' of iridescent spots and a distinct black line running through the eye. Unlike their aggressive cousins (the Three-Spot Gourami), Pearls are generally gentle giants, though males can be territorial towards one another. They are thermophilic (love heat) and require floating plants to feel secure.
Giant Gourami
Osphronemus goramy
The Giant Gourami is a massive, highly intelligent anabantoid that behaves more like a wet pet than a typical community fish. They grow extremely large and have voracious appetites, often completely consuming any live plants in their tank. Due to their immense adult size and extreme bioload, they require massive aquariums and robust filtration.