Gourami and other labyrinth fish (such as paradise fish) are generally peaceful to mildly territorial, using their special labyrinth organ to breathe air from the surface as well as through their gills. They’re best kept in calm community aquariums with gentle flow, plenty of plants and surface cover, and tank mates that aren’t fin-nippers or overly boisterous. A minimum aquarium size of around 60–80 litres suits the smaller species, with larger tanks needed for big varieties like pearl or three-spot gourami. They appreciate warmer, stable water and quiet surroundings, and will thrive on a varied diet of quality flakes, pellets and frozen foods, with plenty of hiding spots to retreat to if they feel stressed.
