Pearl Gourami

Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leeri)

The Pearl Gourami is one of the most stunning and peaceful members of the gourami family. Known for its signature pearl-like spotting, this fish truly stands out in any aquarium. Adult males are especially eye-catching, developing a bright orange-red throat and underside as they mature.

A native to the swamps and slow-moving waters of Southeast Asia (Sumatra, Borneo, Malaysia, and Thailand), the Pearl Gourami is a labyrinth fish, meaning it has a special organ that allows it to breathe air directly. This adaptation helps them thrive even in low-oxygen environments, making them hardy and well-suited for home aquariums.

Why We Love Them

• Beautiful Colouring – Pearl-like patterning across the whole body, with mature males showing a vivid orange glow.

• Graceful & Peaceful – Perfect for community tanks with other gentle species.

• Adaptable & Hardy – Easy to care for and great for aquarists of all levels.

• Not a Fussy Eater – Will happily accept flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods.

• Stunning in Planted Tanks – Their colours really shine in well-planted aquariums with darker substrates.

Tank Setup

Pearl Gouramis thrive in aquariums with dense planting, floating plants for cover, and plenty of hiding spots. A darker substrate will enhance their colours, while gentle water flow is preferred over strong currents. They are generally peaceful, but males may show territorial behaviour—especially during breeding. In larger tanks with good plant cover, this is rarely a problem.

While they can live alongside peaceful fish and some invertebrates, it’s best to avoid keeping them with very small shrimp, which may be seen as food.

Feeding

These fish are mainly carnivorous but not picky. They enjoy a varied diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. A mixed diet will keep them healthy and help their colours stay vibrant.

Care Information

• Temperature: 22–28°C (75–86°F)

• pH: 5.5–8.0

• KH: 2–18 dKH

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons

• Adult Size: Up to 12 cm (about 4.8 inches)

• Purchase Size: Approx. 2.5–3.8 cm (1–1.5 inches)

• Origin: Tank-bred (wild populations are from Southeast Asia)

With their unique pearl-like patterning, calm nature, and graceful swimming style, Pearl Gouramis are a fantastic centrepiece for any freshwater community aquarium.