Sunset Thicklip Gourami (Trichogaster labiosa)

The Sunset Thicklip Gourami (Trichogaster labiosa) is a labyrinth fish from shallow, vegetated waters of Myanmar and Bangladesh, distinguished by its notably thick lips — an adaptation for picking invertebrates from plant surfaces and substrate. Captive-bred color varieties, including the warm orange-yellow 'Sunset' form, have been developed from the wild wild orange-brown base form.

In the Sunset variety, males display a warm gradient of orange, yellow, and cream tones across the flanks with subtle patterning, complemented by orange-tinged fins. The characteristic thick lips give it an endearing, distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other gouramis.

Thicklip Gouramis grow to about 8–10 cm and are generally peaceful labyrinth fish suitable for planted community aquariums. Like other Trichogaster, they breathe atmospheric air using their labyrinth organ and appreciate some surface access and floating plants that reduce surface disturbance.

Males may be mildly territorial toward each other but generally do not cause serious injury. They are bubblenest builders that spawn readily in good conditions. The species is somewhat less commonly available than Honey Gouramis or Three-Spot Gouramis but offers a distinctive and attractive alternative.

Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 22–28°C, GH 4–15. Slightly soft, slightly acidic water is preferred, though they adapt to neutral moderately hard conditions. Stable water quality is important. Weekly water changes of 25–30%.

Tank Setup: Minimum 80 liters for a pair. Provide dense planting with fine-leafed and broad-leafed plants, floating plants for surface cover and nest building, and hiding spots. Gentle filtration with minimal surface agitation to preserve the bubblenest. A tight-fitting lid maintains humidity for the labyrinth organ.

Feeding: Omnivores that accept quality flake food, small pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and small live foods. Their thick lips are adapted for picking invertebrates — live or frozen invertebrates are appreciated. Feed twice daily in moderate amounts.

Tankmates: Peaceful with other non-aggressive fish of similar size. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and small plecos. Males may compete — keep one male per tank or provide sufficient territory in larger setups. Avoid fin-nippers.

Breeding: Bubblenest builders. Males construct floating nests under plant leaves or surface plants. Spawning embrace produces floating eggs. Remove female after spawning. Fry are tiny and require infusoria and micro-brine shrimp nauplii.