Honey Gourami care guide
Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna) — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6-7.5. Peaceful top-water species.
Overview
The Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna) is a small, gentle labyrinth fish native to South Asia. Breeding males develop a warm honey-amber to orange colouration with a darker throat. It is regarded as a calmer and more disease-resistant alternative to the Dwarf Gourami.
Taxonomy
- Family: Osphronemidae
- Genus: Trichogaster
- Scientific name: Trichogaster chuna
- Common synonyms: Sunset Gourami
Habitat
Native to India and Bangladesh, where it inhabits slow-moving rivers, lakes and pools with thick aquatic vegetation. The water is soft, poorly mineralised and often acidic.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 4-5 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 4-15 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Diet
An omnivore. A varied diet of micro-pellets, crushed flake and small frozen or live foods (daphnia, baby brine shrimp, microworms) maintains good colour and condition. Occasional vegetable foods are accepted.
Compatibility
A timid, peaceful community fish. Suitable companions include Corydoras, Neon Tetra, Harlequin Rasbora, Ember Tetra and dwarf shrimp. Avoid mixing with Betta, Tiger Barb or Dwarf Gourami, which can outcompete or stress the species.
Breeding
A bubble-nester. Males build floating bubble nests, often incorporating plant material, and assume sole responsibility for guarding eggs and fry. Eggs hatch after approximately two days and the fry become free-swimming shortly thereafter.