Honey Gourami

Trichogaster chuna, commonly known as the Honey Gourami, is a peaceful, small freshwater labyrinth fish native to slow-moving waters in India and Bangladesh. Males feature vibrant honey-to-orange coloration, while females remain silvery-yellow. Growing up to 5-6 cm, they are ideal for well-planted community tanks.

Key Species Facts

• Common Name: Honey Gourami, Honey Dwarf Gourami
• Size: Males reach about 5 cm; females grow slightly larger up to 6 cm.
• Lifespan: Typically around 4 to 6 years with proper care.
• Temperament: Shy and peaceful; males can be slightly territorial during the breeding season.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

• Tank Size: Minimum of 50-60 liters (10-15 gallons) for a pair.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 22°C - 27°C
  • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
  • Water Hardness: 36 - 268 ppm
• Aquascaping: They thrive in heavily planted tanks with floating plants, which provide necessary hiding spots and simulate their natural habitat.
• Tankmates: Best kept with other small, non-aggressive species. Avoid aggressive fin-nippers, as this gourami is quite timid.

Diet and Behavior

• Diet: Omnivores. They accept high-quality flakes and nano-pellets, but thrive on a varied diet including frozen or live foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
• Labyrinth Organ: Like other gouramis, they possess a specialized organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air.
• Breeding: Males build bubblenests at the water surface and care for the eggs and fry.