Pearl Gourami

Trichopodus leerii

Also known as: Mosaic gourami, Lace gourami, Diamond gourami

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–30°C
• pH: 5.5–8
• Hardness: 35–535 ppm

Care Summary

Considered one of the most beautiful freshwater fish in the hobby, with iridescent pearl-spot patterning across a silver body and an orange-red breast in mature males. A labyrinth species, so requires surface access and a tight lid. Large enough that they need real swimming space — 150L is a genuine minimum, not a 'comfortable' figure. Particularly sensitive to stress in bright open tanks; thrives in densely planted, dimly-lit setups with floating plants for surface cover. Less prone to disease than dwarf gourami (no equivalent DGIV problem), and generally hardy when given proper space.

Tankmates

Among the most peaceful of the larger gouramis. Best kept as a single male, a single female, or a male with 2-3 females. Two males will often coexist in tanks above 200L but smaller tanks risk territorial conflict. Avoid mixing with other gourami species — including dwarf and honey gourami — as they often compete despite the size difference. Excellent in a peaceful planted community with neon tetras, corydoras, and small algae-eaters. Slow eaters; not suitable with fast aggressive feeders.

Compatible with

• Neon Tetra
• Harlequin Rasbora
• Bronze Corydoras
• Ember Tetra
• Kuhli Loach
• Bristlenose Pleco
• Mystery Snail

Avoid keeping with

• Betta
• Dwarf Gourami
• Fin Nippers
• Large Cichlids
• Aggressive Tankmates

Common Problems

• stress in bright open tanks
• ich
• fin nipping from inappropriate tankmates
• slow growth and pale colour in undersized tanks

Sources: seriouslyfish.com, fishbase.org · Last updated: 2026-06-03