Gouramis and Paradise Fish are among the most elegant freshwater fish available, admired for their vibrant colours, graceful movements and unique personalities. From the tiny Sparkling Gourami to the impressive Pearl Gourami and the iconic Paradise Fish, these labyrinth fish make beautiful centrepiece additions to peaceful community aquariums.

Why You'll Love Gouramis & Paradise Fish

• Beautiful colours and flowing finnage
• Excellent centrepiece fish for planted aquariums
• Wide variety of sizes suitable for nano to large aquariums
• Peaceful personalities in many species
• Unique labyrinth organ allows them to breathe atmospheric air

Creating the Ideal Home

Tank Size

Tank requirements vary by species. Smaller Gouramis such as Sparkling Gouramis can thrive in aquariums from 30 litres, while Dwarf Gouramis, Honey Gouramis and Pearl Gouramis are best kept in aquariums of 60 litres or larger. Paradise Fish appreciate larger aquariums with plenty of swimming space and hiding places.

Temperature

Most Gouramis prefer temperatures between 24–28°C. Paradise Fish are more tolerant of cooler conditions and generally thrive between 20–26°C.

Water Quality

• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: ideally below 20 ppm
• pH: 6.0–7.5

Stable, clean water is essential. All species should be introduced only into fully cycled aquariums with regular maintenance.

Filtration

Gentle to moderate water flow is ideal. Many Gouramis naturally inhabit slow-moving waters and appreciate calm conditions with good filtration.

Aquascaping

Live plants, driftwood and floating plants help recreate their natural habitat. Floating vegetation also provides security and is often used during bubble nest building. Leave open swimming areas while providing plenty of cover.

Feeding

Gouramis and Paradise Fish are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet.

• Premium tropical pellets
• Quality flakes
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Live foods as an occasional treat

A varied diet helps maintain vibrant colours, strong immune systems and natural breeding behaviour.

Suitable Tank Mates

Most Gouramis are peaceful when kept with similarly sized community fish. Paradise Fish can be more territorial and should be selected carefully for community aquariums.

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras
• Loaches
• Peaceful Barbs
• Rainbowfish
• Otocinclus

Avoid housing Gouramis or Paradise Fish with aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species or multiple territorial males in smaller aquariums.

Popular Gourami & Paradise Fish Species

• Honey Gourami
• Dwarf Gourami
• Pearl Gourami
• Sparkling Gourami
• Moonlight Gourami
• Three Spot Gourami
• Chocolate Gourami
• Paradise Fish

Gourami & Paradise Fish FAQs

Are Gouramis good for beginners?

Yes. Species such as Honey Gouramis and Pearl Gouramis are excellent choices for beginners with established aquariums. Some species, such as Chocolate Gouramis, require more specialised care.

What is a labyrinth fish?

Gouramis and Paradise Fish possess a specialised labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air. It is normal to see them occasionally swim to the surface for a gulp of air.

Can Gouramis live with shrimp?

Larger Gouramis may eat small shrimp and shrimplets. Sparkling and Honey Gouramis are generally safer with adult shrimp, although baby shrimp may still be at risk.

Can I keep more than one male Gourami?

This depends on the species and aquarium size. Many male Gouramis become territorial, particularly during breeding. Larger aquariums with plenty of plants and hiding places improve compatibility.

Are Paradise Fish aggressive?

Paradise Fish are generally more territorial than most Gouramis. They are best kept with similarly sized, confident tank mates and should not be housed with timid or long-finned fish in smaller aquariums.