Thick-Lipped Gourami (Trichogaster labiosa) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 25 gallons and 72-82°F. A calm, colorful gourami closely related to the honey gourami but a bit larger. It suits a planted community tank and tolerates a fairly wide range of water.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Trichogaster labiosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Origin | South Asia (India and Myanmar) |
| Adult size | 3.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 25 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, males can squabble |
| Social behavior | Pairs or a trio |
| Swim level | Upper to mid |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Diet | Omnivore: flakes, small pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 4-6 years |
Quick tips
- Leave an air gap under the lid.
- Keep only one male unless the tank is large and planted.
- Use floating plants for cover.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. 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