Thick Lipped Gourami - Trichogaster labiosa

The Thick Lipped Gourami is a peaceful species ideal for quiet community aquaria. In the wild, these fish would be found amongst heavy vegetation in the slower reaches of rivers, and so to emulate this, the aquarium should be well-planted and with a gentle water flow. Although they'll adapt to most conditions, Thick Lipped Gouramis will be seen at their best in softwater aquaria, where their striking colours become very impressive. Given sufficient space and plenty of cover, males can be kept together with minimal aggression. As with most gouramis it's best to outnumber them with females.

In addition to the standard wild type, a couple of different colour strains are available: the Orange variety and the Red Robin variety. All can be mixed with the proviso that males of the normal and orange forms will often dominate the smaller red ones.

Ideal Tank Setup

Thick Lipped Gourami thrive in calm, thrive in aquariums abundant with plants that replicate their natural environment. Providing a calm area helps minimize stress since they are sensitive to loud disturbances. Additionally, water conditions with a neutral pH and soft composition are ideal to closely simulate their native habitat. To recreate their natural setting:

• Add dense plants like Java moss or Amazon sword.
• Include floating plants to partially cover the surface.
• Keep pH at 6.0-7.5 and temperature at 22°C-28°C.
• Use a minimum 75-liter tank for ample space.

Compatible Tank Mates

Thick Lipped Gourami is a tranquil species that thrives alongside other non-aggressive fish. To minimize stress, it’s best to avoid housing them with large or hostile species. Additionally, males may display aggression toward vividly coloured

• Small tetras, like neon or ember tetras, for schooling harmony.
• Rasboras for their tranquil nature.
• Corydoras catfish for bottom-dwelling compatibility.
  

Quick Facts

• Species – Trichogaster labiosa
• Common Name – Thick Lipped Gourami
• Origin – India, West Bengal, Assam, and Bangladesh
• Diet – Omnivore, eats algae
• pH Range – 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Type – Soft
• Temperature – Tropical 22°C – 28°C
• Breed Type – Egglayer, bubble nest
• Current Size – approximately 4cm
• Max Size – 5cm
• Tank Size – Minimum 75 liters
• Sex – Un-Sexed