Three spot gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus)

Family: Osphronemidae

A semi-aggressive omnivore osphronemidae from Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam and the Malay Peninsula) — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 22–28 °C
pH: 6–8
GH hardness: 5–19 dGH
Adult length: 10.5–15 cm
Minimum tank: 150 L
Water layer: Upper; surface-oriented
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Origin: 东南亚（泰国、越南、马来西亚半岛）

Species overview

Trichopodus trichopterus is a Osphronemidae. In the aquarium it stays semi-aggressive. Plan on 10.5–15 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. Related profiles: Trichopodus leerii.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Still to very gentle water
Dissolved O₂: Tolerates low oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet: Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Bubble nester; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Three spot gourami easy to keep?

Rated easy — semi-aggressive.

What temperature and water chemistry does Three spot gourami need?

Aim for 22–28 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; 22–28 °C recorded range.

How big does Three spot gourami get, and what tank size?

Full size is 10.5–15 cm. Minimum tank: 150 L, with open swimming space along its upper; surface-oriented habits.

What does Three spot gourami eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Three spot gourami live with other fish?

Semi-aggressive. Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Three spot gourami come from?

Native to 东南亚（泰国、越南、马来西亚半岛）, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Still to very gentle water; Tolerates low oxygen.

How does Three spot gourami breed?

Bubble nester; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.