Latin Name: Trichogaster lalius

Other Names: Sky Blue Gourami, Dwarf Gourami

How hard are they to keep? Sky Blue Gourami’s are generally easy to keep and are suitable for beginner fish keepers. They are hardy and adaptable to a wide range of aquarium conditions.

What is its maximum size? These gourami’s typically reach a maximum size of around 2 to 3 inches in length.

Where are they from? Sky Blue Gourami’s are native to the slow-moving waters of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna river basins in India and Bangladesh.

How many can I keep? It is recommended to keep them in small groups, as this mimics their natural social structure. However, if you have a small aquarium, it is still possible to keep a single gourami.

How compatible are they with other fish? Sky Blue Gourami’s are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish of similar size. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species. They may sometimes display territorial behaviour towards conspecifics (other gourami’s), so providing plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers is important.

What are the ideal water conditions? These gourami’s thrive in well-maintained aquariums with water temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). The pH level should be around 6.0 to 7.5, and hardness between 5 to 15 dGH. Furthermore, ensure the aquarium has plenty of vegetation and areas for the fish to explore and hide. The Sky Blue Gourami’s that are for sale have been climatized to our local water conditions.

Fun Fact: Sky Blue Gourami’s are known for their unique ability to breathe air. They possess a specialized labyrinth organ that allows them to extract oxygen from the air above the water surface. This adaptation allows them to survive in oxygen-deprived environments, such as shallow pools and rice paddies in their native habitats.