Pearl Gourami

Pearl Gourami Care Guide

Pearl Gouramis are peaceful, hardy freshwater fish known for their shimmering, pearly appearance and graceful fins. They thrive in planted aquariums and do well in community settings with the right tank mates.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 80 liters minimum for a small group (ideally 3 or more)

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Filtration: Gentle flow; they prefer calm waters

• Lighting: Moderate to low; dim lighting brings out their natural iridescence

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Tank Lid: Recommended—they are labyrinth fish and can jump

Tank Setup

• Plants: Heavily planted with floating plants (they appreciate shaded areas)

• Decor: Driftwood, caves, and open swimming space

• Surface Access: Important—they breathe air via their labyrinth organ

️ Diet & Feeding

• Type: Omnivorous

• Staple Foods:

  • High-quality flake or pellet food

• Supplement With:

  • Live/frozen foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

  • Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini (occasionally)

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in small amounts

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best in small groups (3–5)

• Social Structure: Males can be territorial—keep a 1 male:2+ females ratio

✅ Suitable Tank Mates:

• Tetras (e.g., neon, ember, rummynose)

• Corydoras catfish

• Harlequin Rasboras

• Otocinclus

• Guppies

• Dwarf Gouramis (monitor closely—some aggression possible)

• Snails & Shrimp (larger types like Amano)

❌ Avoid:

• Aggressive or fin-nipping species (e.g., tiger barbs, large cichlids)

Breeding Notes

• Breeding Type: Bubble nest builder

• Mating Setup: Warm, shallow tank with floating plants

• Male Behavior: Builds bubble nest and guards eggs

• Fry Care: Remove adults after spawning—fry need infusoria and fine fry food initially

Health & Maintenance

• Common Issues:

  • Fin rot

  • Ich (white spot disease)

  • Bacterial infections (from poor water quality)

• Prevention:

  • Weekly 25–30% water changes

  • Quarantine new fish

  • Maintain stable parameters

Quick Tips

• Pearl Gouramis love calm, planted tanks with space to swim and hide

• They are air breathers—ensure access to the surface

• Their beautiful color intensifies in a well-maintained, low-stress environment