Gold Gourami - Trichogaster trichopterus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Gold Gourami (Trichogaster trichopterus) is a distinguished freshwater species renowned for its vibrant coloration and dynamic presence within the aquatic hobby. Originating from a wide range of habitats in Southeast Asia, this species has adapted to various environmental conditions, making it exceptionally hardy and suitable for a range of aquarium settings and an excellent choice for beginner aquarists. However, it's important to note that Gold Gouramis exhibit a higher level of aggression relative to other members of the Gourami family, particularly among males. With maturity and increased size, there is a tendency for these fish to display more aggressive behaviors, including ramming, attacking, and preying on smaller fish.
Gouramis are frequently marketed in pairs; however, it is important to understand that these fish do not form monogamous pairs. Male gouramis will engage in courtship behaviors towards females, operating under the assumption that females would vacate their territory if uninterested. In the restricted environment of an aquarium, such an option for the females to leave is not viable. Therefore, it is advisable to introduce several females to the aquarium to distribute the male's attention more evenly and reduce potential stress on any single female.
Despite their semi-aggressive disposition, Gold Gouramis can be successfully integrated into a community aquarium with an appropriate selection of tank mates. It is recommended to curate an assortment of fish with varying dispositions while ensuring they are of a size comparable to the Gouramis to foster a harmonious environment. Gold Gouramis, being leisurely and explorative in nature, are not well-suited to cohabitation with highly energetic fish prone to chasing and nipping.
It is critical to select compatible companions for the tank. Suitable tank mates include Plecostomus, Cherry Barbs, and Mystery Snails, which share akin personality traits and care requirements with Gouramis. Due to the Gold Gouramis' expansive fins, it is prudent to avoid species known for fin-nipping, such as Tiger Barbs and Blue Tetras. As Gouramis age, their aggression towards smaller tank inhabitants may increase. Consequently, it is advisable to avoid housing them with any species smaller than 4 inches, including dwarf shrimp and other diminutive fish, to prevent predatory behavior.
The Gold Gourami possesses a specialized labyrinth organ, allowing it to breathe atmospheric air, which enables its survival in environments with stagnant water and low oxygen levels. Consequently, it is crucial to ensure that the aquarium's surface remains accessible to these fish, facilitating their occasional need to gulp air. The aquarium should extend over 90 cm (36 inches) in length and include a substantial amount of aquatic vegetation to offer refuge and disrupt direct lines of sight. Tank decoration should emulate a marsh or swamp environment, providing the fish with ample hiding spots, shallow vegetation, and floating plants, while still preserving sufficient surface area for air access. Upon establishing your aquarium, opt for a filtration system that produces a gentle to moderate water flow. Gouramis are adverse to strong currents, thus a sponge filter might be an optimal choice to accommodate their preferences.
The Golden Gourami stands as an aesthetically captivating colour variation derived from the Three Spot Gourami lineage. Among the spectrum of coloured varieties, it distinguishes itself through its notably vibrant and alluring hue. Elegantly adorned with a resplendent gold tone, the species further presents a distinctive striped patterning along its dorsal line, characterized by deeper tonalities. These elongated, sideways-compressed fish possess unique long, touch-sensitive, threadlike ventral fins, which aid them in sensing their surroundings. Worth noting is the absence of the two characteristic dark spots observed in its parental lineage.
Gold Gourami Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
To distinguish between male and female Gold Gouramis, the most reliable method is to examine their dorsal fins. Males have elongated and pointed dorsal fins, while females have shorter and rounder ones. This difference in fin morphology is a sexually dimorphic trait that is commonly observed in many gourami species.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Trichogaster trichopterus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1770 |
| Other Names | Crosby Gourami |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Anabantiformes |
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Genus | Trichogaster |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 12 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Bubble Nester |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 6 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.5 |
| GH | 4 - 18 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Introduced to the aquarium trade in 1970, the Gold Gourami is a cultivated colour variation originating from the Three Spot Gourami lineage. As a result of its captive breeding, the Golden Gourami lacks a native habitat. The Three Spot Gourami maintains a broad distribution spanning across continental Southeast Asia and Indonesia where they favour environments with shallow waters and minimal water currents.
Breeding
The breeding process of the Gold Gourami is relatively straightforward, with the male constructing a bubble nest on the water's surface. To initiate breeding, males will repeatedly swim beneath the nest, flaring their fins and raising their tails to attract the female. Once the female is ready to breed, the male will wrap himself around her and fertilize up to 800 eggs in a single spawning. He will then transfer the eggs to the nest, where he will vigorously defend them until hatching.
To ensure optimal growth of the fry, it is recommended to remove the female from the spawning pond immediately after spawning is complete. The eggs will hatch approximately 48 hours later, and the fry will become free-swimming shortly after. At this point, the male should also be removed from the tank to avoid any unintentional harm to the fry.
It is essential to cover the aquarium tightly to maintain the required humidity and temperature for the fry's proper labyrinth organ development. Feeding the fry liquid fry food or infusoria until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp is also crucial to their healthy growth.
Diet & Feeding
The Gold Gourami, an omnivorous species, benefits from a varied diet encompassing live, frozen, freeze-dried, and flake foods. It is advisable to use a high-quality flake or granular food as the primary diet, supplementing it with alternative sources such as bloodworms, white worms, and brine shrimp to ensure nutritional diversity. Additionally, incorporating blanched vegetables periodically will contribute to a well-rounded diet.
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