Three Spot Gourami

Three Spot Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus) is a large, hardy, and adaptable gourami — one of the most commonly kept and most forgiving species in the family. The name refers to three spots: one on each side of the body mid-flank, plus the eye (counted as the third). The wild-type silver-blue body with dark spots is attractive, and numerous color forms including the Opaline variety have been developed through selective breeding.

Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed 2–3 times daily. This is a robust and unfussy feeder.

Native to a vast range across Southeast Asia — the Mekong basin, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and surrounding areas. Inhabits slow-moving rivers, lakes, swamps, and rice paddies. The extraordinary natural range explains this species' adaptability to varied water conditions — it is one of the most tolerant gouramis available.

Keep one male with two or more females. Males can be territorial and occasionally aggressive toward smaller, slower fish — choose tankmates of comparable size. At 6 inches this is a substantial gourami that needs adequate space. Compatible with larger tetras, barbs, and other robust community fish.

Males build floating bubble nests at the surface among plants or floating vegetation when in breeding condition — a fascinating and distinctive behavior. The male courts the female with elaborate fin displays, and the pair spawns beneath the nest. The male guards eggs and wriggling larvae until the fry become free-swimming. Remove the female after spawning to protect her from the male's nest-guarding aggression. All gouramis possess a labyrinth organ — a specialized breathing structure above the gills that allows them to breathe atmospheric air directly from the surface. This adaptation evolved for life in oxygen-poor waters and means gouramis can survive in conditions that would stress most other fish. Always ensure unobstructed surface access — a tight-fitting lid with a small gap, or a covered aquarium, prevents the fish from breathing cold air which can cause respiratory issues.

Care & Ideal Parameters