Mekong Croacking Guaramy (Trichopsis schalleri)

Family: Osphronemidae

Mekong Croacking Guaramy — a Osphronemidae from Singapore. Reaches 3.8–5.5 cm; keep at 22–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6–7
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
3.8–5.5 cm
Minimum tank
36 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Territorial; one male per tank
Origin
Singapore

Species overview

Trichopsis schalleri is a Osphronemidae from Singapore. In the wild it prefers still waters, rice paddies and slow streams; in the aquarium it stays territorial. Plan on 3.8–5.5 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. Related profiles: Trichopsis pumila, Trichopsis vittata.

Native biotope

Habitat
Still waters, rice paddies and slow streams
Flow
Still to very gentle water
Dissolved O₂
Tolerates low oxygen; labyrinth breather

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Soft sand with leaf litter
Hardscape
Dense planting and shelters
Plants
Dense hardy plants reaching the surface

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet
Carnivore; prepared foods plus frozen or live
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males larger with longer fins
Breeding method
Bubble-nest builder with paternal care

Frequently asked questions

Is Mekong Croacking Guaramy easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: territorial; one male per tank; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Mekong Croacking Guaramy need?

Hold 22–28 °C and keep it stable — 22–28 °C recorded range. Heater required; stable warmth.

How big does Mekong Croacking Guaramy get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 3.8–5.5 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 36 litres.

What does Mekong Croacking Guaramy eat?

Carnivore; prepared foods plus frozen or live. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Mekong Croacking Guaramy live with other fish?

Territorial; one male per tank. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Mekong Croacking Guaramy come from?

Its home waters are Singapore — still waters, rice paddies and slow streams, with still to very gentle water.

Does Mekong Croacking Guaramy jump?

It can jump when startled — keep the tank tightly covered, especially at night and during maintenance.

How does Mekong Croacking Guaramy breed?

Bubble-nest builder with paternal care. Males larger with longer fins.