Sparkling gourami

Behaviour and habits

The sparkling gourami is a tiny, secretive labyrinth fish that makes an audible croak, most often in the evening and around spawning. It is peaceful but shy, staying close to dense plants and cover, and it only becomes relaxed and visible when kept in a small group in a well-planted tank. Its shimmering blue eye spots and cryptic behaviour make it a rewarding little fish for a quiet, planted setup.

What to feed, and how often

It is a micro-predator: tiny meaty foods such as daphnia, baby brineshrimp and micro-pellets. Feed one or two tiny meals a day, keeping the food small for its mouth, and make sure it is not out-competed by larger or faster fish.

Water changes and maintenance

Change about 20% weekly in soft, warm water, matched gently. It dislikes hard water and sudden changes, so stability matters more than volume, and it does best in a mature, planted tank.

Care and how easy it is

Not a fish for a bare tank: it needs dense plants, soft water and a quiet, planted setup, and a small group to feel secure.

Common health problems

Sensitive to poor water; can suffer bacterial and parasitic problems when stressed.

If it gets sick

Keep the water soft, warm and stable, feed consistently, and isolate and treat early if an infection shows.