Dwarf Gourami
Scientific name: Trichogaster lalius
Fish from calm waters with dense vegetation, sensitive to water quality and stress.
Quick facts
- Approximate size5–7 cm
- Average weight3–5 g
- Life expectancy3–5 years (captivity)
- ActivityMostly diurnal
Basic information
- Habitat: ponds, canals, and slow sections of rivers in South Asia, with abundant vegetation.
- Diet: insects, larvae, small invertebrates, and prepared food.
- Sexual dimorphism: males with more intense colors and more pointed dorsal fin.
- Predators: larger fish, aquatic birds, and other slow water predators.
Life in the wild
How this species lives in its natural environment, with the waters, shelters and resources it needs.
Species overview
The dwarf gourami adds color and interesting behavior to calm and well-planted aquariums.
Natural habitat
It prefers warm, shallow waters with many floating and stem plants.
Behavior
Males patrol small areas near the surface, especially during breeding season.
Special features
Its aerial respiration allows it to survive in oxygen-poor waters, but not in dirty waters.
Conservation and threats
In nature it suffers from habitat degradation and pollution, although it is common in aquaristics.
Curiosities
Striking details about this species that help better understand its biology and role in aquatic ecosystems.
- It builds bubble nests on the surface to protect eggs.
- It is a labyrinth fish: it can take air from the surface to breathe.
- It can show aggression between males in small spaces.
- Many color varieties have been selected, such as "neon" or "fire red".
Welfare profile
Summary of the most critical points if this species is kept in aquariums, ponds or specialized facilities.
Space and facilitiesMedium
It needs aquariums with dense vegetation and calm surface areas to build nests.
Water quality and parametersMedium
It requires clean and stable water; it is sensitive to pollutants and sudden changes.
Handling and stressMedium
It can easily become stressed with aggressive companions or in small aquariums.
Dwarf Gourami in captivity
General information aimed at professional facilities, public aquariums and educational projects. It does not intend to promote capture or impulsive keeping of aquatic fauna.
⚠️ Before keeping fish like this species, it is essential to review local regulations, ensure adequate facilities and minimize impact on wild populations.
Suitable facilities
Ideal for peaceful community aquariums with calm companions and dense vegetation.
Feeding in responsible centers
The diet includes quality dry food, small live prey, and frozen food.
Handling and welfare
It is important to avoid very active or aggressive companions that may stress it.
Ethical message
In education it can be used to talk about labyrinth fish, aerial respiration, and nest building.
Many aquatic species suffer from massive captures, uncontrolled trade and irresponsible releases. The priority should always be to protect rivers, lakes and seas, reduce pollution and consume seafood responsibly.