Opaline Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus) Care Guide

A color morph of the Three Spot Gourami with a beautiful marbled blue pattern. Hardy and adaptable, but males can be territorial and aggressive towards other gouramis.

Overview

Trichopodus trichopterus is a species in the family Osphronemidae. A color morph of the Three Spot Gourami with a beautiful marbled blue pattern. Hardy and adaptable, but males can be territorial and aggressive towards other gouramis. Uses its thread-like pelvic fins to sense surroundings. A labyrinth fish that breathes atmospheric air.

Taxonomy

Family: Osphronemidae
Genus: Trichopodus
Scientific name: Trichopodus trichopterus
Other names: Marbled Gourami, Cosby Gourami
Origin: Southeast Asia

Habitat

A selectively bred marbled colour form of the three-spot gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus), which is native to the Mekong basin and across Southeast Asia. The wild species inhabits sluggish lowland waters, marshes and rice paddies with dense vegetation and breathes air via a labyrinth organ.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 120 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 6-8
GH: 5-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 10-15 cm
Lifespan: 4-6 years
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: top
Compatible tank mates: Large Tetras, Corydoras, Bristlenose Pleco, Barbs
Avoid with: Other Male Gouramis, Betta, Small Fish

Breeding

Breeding difficulty: intermediate