Honey Gourami
Trichogaster chuna
Also known as: Sunset honey gourami, Red honey gourami
Quick Facts
- Adult size: 4.5-5.5 cm (1.77-2.16 inches)
- Minimum tank size: 55 litres (14.5 gallons)
- Lifespan: 4–8 years
- Temperament: peaceful
- Swimming level: middle-and-top
- Diet: omnivore
- Minimum group size: 1
- Difficulty: beginner
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 22–27°C
- pH: 6–7.5
- Hardness: 36–268 ppm
Care Summary
A small, peaceful labyrinth fish in a soft gold-honey colour, with mature males developing a darker face and orange-red underbelly during breeding displays. Significantly less prone to the disease problems that plague farmed dwarf gouramis, and generally easier to keep. Shy by nature — performs best in densely planted tanks with subdued lighting and other peaceful tankmates. Will become more confident over time in a stable, calm tank. Requires surface access for atmospheric breathing; a tight-fitting lid is essential. Genuinely beginner-friendly while still being one of the more interesting community fish to observe.
Tankmates
Among the most peaceful and shy of all gouramis. Best as a single fish or a bonded pair (one male, one female); males may show mild aggression toward each other in undersized tanks. Genuinely shrimp-safe — small mouth and peaceful temperament means even adult cherry shrimp are usually ignored. An excellent peaceful alternative to dwarf gourami without the DGIV concerns. Avoid pairing with bettas (similar body shape triggers competition) and other gourami species.
Compatible with
- Neon Tetra
- Harlequin Rasbora
- Bronze Corydoras
- Ember Tetra
- Kuhli Loach
- Cherry Shrimp
- Otocinclus
- Mystery Snail
Avoid keeping with
- Betta
- Dwarf Gourami
- Pearl Gourami
- Fin Nippers
- Aggressive Tankmates
Common Problems
- shyness and hiding in bright open tanks
- ich
- fin damage from inappropriate tankmates
- occasional bloat from overfeeding
Sources: seriouslyfish.com, fishbase.org · Last updated: 2026-06-03