Banded Gourami

Trichogaster fasciata (formerly Colisa fasciata) is widespread across South and Southeast Asia in rivers, canals, and rice paddies. Males are beautifully marked with iridescent blue and orange banding from snout to tail. Though they can be mildly aggressive, they make impressive centerpiece fish in medium to large community aquaria.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 6.0–7.0, soft to moderately hard. Tank: 80L minimum, dense marginal planting, floating plants for bubble nest construction. Feeding: Omnivore — flake, pellets, frozen/live invertebrates; accepts most foods readily. Behaviour: Males may be semi-aggressive toward each other and similar-looking fish. Compatibility: Suitable with medium community fish; avoid multiple males.