Trichopodus Trichopterus

Datasheet

General Description

The Three-Spot Gourami, scientifically known as Trichopodus trichopterus, is a labyrinth fish with a wide variety of color forms resulting from selective breeding for the aquarium trade. This species, one of the hardiest in the trade, can adapt to various water conditions and is typically available in color variations such as gold, opaline, cosby, marbled, and silver, with the blue-grey natural form being less common.

Aquarium Setup

For the Three-Spot Gourami, a tank setup with live plants, floating cover, and open swimming areas is recommended. The water conditions should fall within a temperature range of 24-30°C, pH between 5.5-8.5, and hardness of 3-35°dH. (see table)

Behaviour

Although often suggested for community tanks, Three-Spot Gouramis can exhibit territorial and aggressive behavior, especially among males during breeding. They are best kept with robust fish like barbs, larger characins, loricariids, loaches, and medium/large gouramis.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, Three-Spot Gouramis are omnivores known to consume terrestrial and aquatic plants, algae, small invertebrates, zooplankton, and detritus. They are unfussy eaters and readily accept a variety of foods provided in captivity.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

The Three-Spot Gourami is relatively easy to breed, with males building bubble nests among floating plants to house the eggs. It is advised to introduce multiple females to reduce female stress during breeding. Sexual dimorphism is evident, with males growing larger and developing pointed dorsal fins, while females are smaller and rounder in the belly.

Habitat and Distribution

Naturally found in the River Mekong basin across countries like China, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia, the Three-Spot Gourami thrives in slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters such as ponds, swamps, and marshes. Despite its native habitat, most specimens in the aquarium trade are commercially bred in the Far East and Eastern Europe.