Thick-lipped Gourami

Trichogaster labiosa is a handsome medium gourami native to still and slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters of Myanmar and northeastern India. The common name refers to the distinctly thickened lips that set it apart from related species — an adaptation likely related to feeding on insect larvae at the water surface. Males are strikingly colored with alternating bands of bright orange-red and blue-green iridescence running horizontally across the body, with similarly patterned dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. Females are less colorful, displaying softer muted tones.

Reaching about 10 cm, it is smaller and more compact than the larger Trichopodus gouramis, making it suitable for a wider range of aquarium sizes. It is generally peaceful and significantly less aggressive than related Trichopodus trichopterus species, making it a much better choice for planted community tanks where constant male aggression is undesirable.

Like all Trichogaster and Trichopodus species, the Thick-lipped Gourami is a labyrinth fish with the ability to breathe atmospheric air. It is a bubble-nest builder, with males constructing elaborate foam nests at the water surface among floating plants. The species is curious and interactive, often approaching the front glass and following the keeper's movements. Trichogaster labiosa is sometimes confused in the trade with the closely related Colisa lalia (Dwarf Gourami), but the Thick-lipped Gourami grows significantly larger, has a distinctly different body profile, and shows markedly different coloration in males. Understanding the distinction is important for appropriate care, as the two species have somewhat different temperament profiles and tank size requirements.

Tank Setup A minimum 80-liter, planted aquarium with floating plants is ideal. Floating vegetation (Water Lettuce, Frogbit, Amazon Frogbit) provides surface cover for bubble nesting and reduces light intensity. Tall background plants and driftwood offer structure and line-of-sight breaks. Gentle to moderate filtration — avoid strong surface disruption. A warm, humid air space above the water is important for labyrinth function.

Water Parameters Maintain pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 22–28°C. Soft to moderately hard water. Weekly 25% water changes. Tolerant of a good range of parameters, making it accessible to beginners.

Feeding Omnivorous. Readily accepts flake food, micro pellets, and frozen or live foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp). May also hunt small insects at the water surface. Feed twice daily. A varied diet enhances male coloration significantly.

Male Aggression Far less aggressive toward other species than Trichopodus trichopterus. Males may display to each other — keep one male per 80-liter tank, or provide ample visual breaks and space. Generally safe with most peaceful community fish.

Breeding Male builds a bubble nest under floating plants. After spawning, remove the female. The male guards the nest until fry are free-swimming (about 3–5 days). Fry require infusoria or commercial fry foods for the first week.

Tankmates Compatible with most peaceful community fish: tetras, rasboras, corydoras, loaches, and similarly sized species. Avoid fin-nipping species (tiger barbs) and large aggressive fish.

Health Notes Generally robust. Watch for velvet and ich. Maintain a warm, draft-free air space above the water surface. Clean water is the foundation of long-term health.

Breeding Notes Males build bubble nests beneath floating plants. Condition both sexes with live foods before attempting to spawn. After spawning, remove the female — males guard the nest actively and can injure females that remain. Fry hatch in 24–36 hours and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp within a week.