Moonlight Gourami (Trichopodus microlepis) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 40 gallons and 77-84°F. A calm, silvery gourami with thread-like pelvic fins that shimmer under dim light. It is shy at first and likes floating plants and warm, stable water.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Trichopodus microlepis |
|---|---|
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Origin | Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, Southeast Asia |
| Adult size | 5-6 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 77-84°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, may bully shy fish |
| Social behavior | Single, pair or small group in a big tank |
| Swim level | Top to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 4-8 years |
Quick tips
- Use a lid with an air gap.
- Add floating plants to help it settle.
- Avoid very active fin-nippers.
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