Three-Spot Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus)

The Three-Spot Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus) is a widely available labyrinth fish native to slow-moving rivers, ponds, and swamps across much of Southeast Asia including Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Despite its name referring to three spots, the fish actually only has two visible dark spots — one mid-body and one near the tail — with the eye serving as the implied third spot.

This species is a sturdy, adaptable gourami that is available in several captive-bred color varieties: the natural wild form (silvery-blue with faint marbling), the popular Blue Gourami (uniform steel blue), the Golden or Opaline Gourami (yellow-gold), and the Marble Gourami. All share the same care requirements.

Three-Spot Gouramis grow to about 12–15 cm and are hardier and more assertive than many other gouramis. They are generally peaceful toward dissimilar fish but males can be territorial toward each other and may bully smaller, long-finned, or slower fish. Selecting appropriate tankmates is important.

As a labyrinth fish, the Three-Spot Gourami breathes atmospheric air and appreciates a calm surface with floating plants and a fitted lid to maintain warm, humid air above the water. It is a bubblenest builder that spawns readily in appropriate conditions.

Water Parameters: pH 6.0–8.0, temperature 22–28°C, GH 5–20. Adaptable and hardy, tolerating a wide range of conditions. Prefers slightly soft, neutral water but thrives in most standard aquarium conditions. Stable parameters are preferred over extreme chemistry.

Tank Setup: Minimum 120 liters for a single adult or pair. Provide dense planting for cover, floating plants for bubblenest building and surface access, and open mid-water swimming space. Good filtration with gentle to moderate flow. A secure lid is important for labyrinth organ humidity.

Feeding: Omnivores that accept flake food, pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and small live foods. Feed twice daily. Variety promotes long-term health and maintains coloration.

Tankmates: Avoid long-finned, timid, or slow fish (bettas, fancy guppies) as they may be harassed. Best with active, medium-sized fish: tetras, barbs, cories, and loaches. Keep only one male per tank unless the aquarium is very large. Females can be kept in small groups.

Breeding: Bubblenest builders. Males construct a floating nest and court females with elaborate displays. Remove female after spawning. Fry are tiny and require infusoria. Male guards nest until fry are free-swimming.