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.
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) At a Glance
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Tank Requirements
Will Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Water Parameters
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Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Temperament & Compatibility
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard / Unsexed (Blue, Gold, Opaline)
The standard commercial form found in pet stores. Usually sold as juveniles. Because sexing juveniles is difficult, keeping only one per tank is recommended to avoid male-on-male violence.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Blue, Gold, Opaline, Cosby, Juvenile
Male
Identified by a longer, pointed dorsal fin. Males are highly territorial towards other Gouramis and should strictly be kept singly unless the tank is very large (120cm+).
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Female
Identified by a shorter, rounded dorsal fin. While less aggressive than males, they can still be bossy. Multiple females can usually coexist if space allows.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Care Guide Summary
The Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline), scientifically known as Trichopodus trichopterus, belongs to the Anabantoids family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 13 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the surface and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–8 and a general hardness of 5–25 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
The Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard / Unsexed (Blue, Gold, Opaline), Male, and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline), a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the surface and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline and open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress and floating plants to diffuse overhead light and create shaded areas.
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, avoid housing with slow-moving or long-finned species that may become targets for fin nipping, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the surface and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline).
30 Gallon Breeder
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
Show 10 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline)
How big does Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) get?
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) (Trichopodus trichopterus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 13 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm are recommended for Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline). This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) need?
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6 and 8, and a general hardness of 5–25 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) peaceful or aggressive?
Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) live with others of its kind?
No. Only one Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) should be kept per tank. Keeping multiples in the same aquarium typically results in aggression and stress.
Does Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) benefits from plants - densely covered and plants - floating in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline)
These plants pair well with Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline) based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Amazon Frogbit
Limnobium laevigatum
Asian Watergrass
Hygroryza aristata
Asian Watermoss
Salvinia cucullata
Carolina Mosquito Fern
Azolla caroliniana
Common Duckweed
Lemna minor
Crystalwort
Riccia fluitans
Fish Similar to Three Spot Gourami (Blue/Gold/Opaline)
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.
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.
Moonlight Gourami
Trichogaster microlepis
A gracefully sloping, large labyrinth fish characterized by its beautiful, iridescent silvery sheen and exceptionally long, thread-like ventral fins (feelers). While peaceful and somewhat timid, they are notorious for nibbling on soft-leaved and fine aquarium plants. They require access to the surface to breathe atmospheric air.
Sparkling Gourami
Trichopsis pumila
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.
Chocolate Gourami
Sphaerichthys osphromenoides
A delicate, highly specialized labyrinth fish native to the peat swamp forests of Southeast Asia. Known for its rich chocolate-brown coloration and vertical cream bands. It is notorious for being sensitive to water quality fluctuations and requires extremely soft, acidic 'blackwater' to thrive and resist bacterial infections. Best kept in a heavily planted, mature species-only setup or with very peaceful, small nano fish.
Banded Gourami
Trichogaster fasciata
The Banded Gourami is a robust and hardy labyrinth fish known for its striking diagonal stripes. Considerably larger than the Dwarf Gourami, they are active swimmers but generally peaceful in community settings. They require access to the water's surface to breathe atmospheric air. Males can be highly territorial toward each other.