Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 74-82°F. A colorful, calm gourami that is prone to a viral disease in commercial stock. Choose healthy fish and quarantine carefully.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Trichogaster lalius |
|---|---|
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Origin | India and Bangladesh |
| Adult size | 3 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 74-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful; males can squabble |
| Social behavior | Solitary or pairs |
| Swim level | Top to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 4-6 years |
Quick tips
- Buy only active, clear-finned fish.
- Quarantine new arrivals.
- One male per tank unless it is large and well planted.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi