Freshwater Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii)

Freshwater Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii)

Scientific Name: Trichopodus leerii
Common Names: Pearl Gourami, Lace Gourami
Family: Osphronemidae
Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)

 

Overview

The Pearl Gourami is one of the most elegant and peaceful gourami species, recognized for its shimmering “pearl-like” spots across the body and fins, along with a distinctive horizontal black stripe. Males develop a beautiful orange to reddish throat during maturity. Known for their calm temperament and graceful swimming, Pearl Gouramis are excellent centerpiece fish in planted community aquariums.

 

Size

• Adult Size: 4–5 inches
• Growth Rate: Moderate

 

Lifespan

• Typically 5–8 years with proper care

 

Temperament

• Peaceful and shy
• Best kept in small groups (1 male with 2–3 females)
• Males may display mild territorial behavior during breeding
• Non-aggressive toward most community fish

 

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Recommended: 40+ gallons for groups
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
• Aquascape: Heavily planted with floating plants, driftwood, and shaded areas
• Lid: Recommended (labyrinth fish; access to surface air required)
• Filtration: Gentle flow preferred

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Prefers slightly acidic, stable water conditions

 

Diet

• Omnivorous
• Eats:
  • High-quality flakes and pellets
  • Frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)
  • Occasional plant matter

 

Feeding

• Feed 1–2 times daily
• Provide a varied diet to enhance coloration and health
• Avoid overfeeding

 

Tank Mates

Compatible:

• Peaceful fish (tetras, rasboras, Corydoras)
• Other non-aggressive gouramis (with space)
• Small loaches and peaceful bottom dwellers

 

Avoid:

• Aggressive or fin-nipping species (tiger barbs)
• Large, boisterous fish that may stress them

 

Breeding

• Bubble nest builder
• Male builds nest at surface using plant material
• Male guards eggs and fry
• Requires calm water and floating plants for successful breeding

 

Reef Safe

• Not applicable (freshwater species)

 

Care Level

• Easy to Moderate
• Suitable for beginners with stable, well-planted aquariums

 

Special Notes

• Labyrinth fish—requires access to surface air
• Colors intensify in well-maintained, planted tanks
• Males display more vibrant coloration than females
• Appreciates calm environments with minimal stress
• Floating plants help mimic natural habitat and enhance comfort