Banded Gourami Wild

Trichogaster fasciata, the banded gourami, is a large and colourful labyrinth fish from the Ganges-Brahmaputra basin of India and Bangladesh. Males are spectacular in the wild form, bearing alternating vertical bands of bright blue and orange-yellow that run from behind the gills to the base of the caudal fin. Captive strains bred for colour are also available.

This species reaches up to 12 cm and requires a spacious, well-planted aquarium. It is an active swimmer and tends to be peaceful, though males may occasionally squabble. It adapts well to a broad range of water conditions, making it far more forgiving than many labyrinth fish. The species can coexist in a community with larger, robust tank mates.

Breeding follows the typical gourami pattern: the male builds an elaborate floating bubble nest and provides parental care for the eggs and early fry. T. fasciata is an underappreciated species in the hobby, often overshadowed by its dwarf gourami relative despite its impressive adult colouration.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard — very adaptable. Tank: 100 L minimum for an adult pair; well-planted with open swimming space. Feeding: omnivorous — accepts flake, pellet, live, and frozen foods readily. Breeding: elaborate bubble nester; male guards eggs; remove female after spawning. Compatibility: peaceful with similarly sized fish; avoid very small species that may be intimidated.