Giant Gourami

Osphronemus goramy is the largest labyrinth fish, reaching up to 70cm in the wild. Originally from Java and Sumatra, it is widely farmed as a food fish across Southeast Asia. In the aquarium it develops a personality, learning to accept hand-feeding and following its keeper. Juveniles are attractively patterned; adults develop a distinctive humped forehead.

Water: 20–30°C, pH 6.5–8.0, adaptable to a wide range of water chemistry. Tank: 500L minimum for adults; requires a very large, robust setup. Feeding: Omnivore — vegetables, fruit, pellets, prawns; adults consume significant plant matter. Behaviour: Generally peaceful but may eat small fish; territorial toward conspecifics when large. Compatibility: Best with large robust fish — large cichlids, catfish; not suitable with small species.