💎 Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius)

The Dwarf Gourami is a stunning labyrinth fish prized for its brilliant colors and peaceful nature. Males display vibrant red and blue striping that makes them a centerpiece in any community tank. Like bettas, they can breathe atmospheric air, allowing them to thrive in various conditions.

📋 Quick Facts

🌟 Color Varieties

• Powder Blue - Solid blue coloration
• Flame/Red - Bright red-orange
• Neon Blue - Enhanced blue striping
• Honey - Golden-yellow (different species technically)

⚠️ Important Considerations

• Dwarf Gourami Iridovirus (DGIV) - Common in mass-bred fish
• Males can be aggressive - Usually keep one male per tank
• Shy fish - Need hiding spots and plants
• Surface breathers - Need access to surface air

🏠 Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum
• Plants: Heavily planted preferred
• Floating plants: Provide security
• Current: Gentle - strong flow stresses them
• Hiding spots: Essential for shy nature

Water Parameters

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Omnivores that prefer variety.

• High-quality flakes/pellets - Staple
• Frozen bloodworms - Favorite
• Frozen brine shrimp
• Live foods - Enhances color and health
• Blanched vegetables - Occasional

Feed 2 times daily. They're surface feeders primarily.

🐟 Compatibility

Good Tankmates

• Small peaceful tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Peaceful small barbs
• Snails and shrimp
• Other peaceful community fish

Avoid

• Other male gouramis - Will fight
• Bettas - Related species, may fight
• Fin nippers - Tiger barbs
• Large aggressive fish
• Very active fish - May stress them

🏥 Health Concerns

• DGIV (Iridovirus) - Sadly common, often fatal
• Symptoms: Loss of color, lethargy, bloating
• Prevention: Buy from reputable sources, quarantine
• Stress - Prone to illness when stressed

💡 Tips for Success

• Buy from reputable breeders when possible
• Quarantine new fish for 2-4 weeks
• Provide lots of plants and hiding spots
• Keep one male only (unless large tank)
• Maintain pristine water quality
• Avoid stressors - sudden changes, aggressive tankmates

📚 Summary

Dwarf Gouramis are beautiful fish that can be wonderful additions to peaceful community tanks. Their main challenge is susceptibility to disease, particularly DGIV. Source from quality breeders, quarantine new arrivals, and provide a calm planted environment for the best chance of success.