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Every fish passes through our dedicated quarantine system and strict biosecurity monitoring before sale - so it arrives healthy, settled and ready to thrive. How we quarantine →
Samurai Gourami are a stunning and relatively uncommon freshwater gourami known for their deep reddish-brown body, dark markings and iridescent blue-green highlights. Their unusual appearance makes them an excellent feature fish for carefully maintained planted and blackwater-style aquariums.
They are a small, peaceful labyrinth fish that naturally appreciate soft, acidic water, gentle flow and heavily planted environments. Floating plants, driftwood, leaf litter and subdued lighting can help recreate the sheltered conditions they prefer.
Samurai Gourami are more sensitive to water quality and changes than hardy gourami species, so they are best suited to mature, stable aquariums. They can be shy when first introduced and benefit from plenty of cover.
Their small size and peaceful nature make them suitable for carefully selected community aquariums, although they should not be housed with large, aggressive or highly active fish.
Scientific Name: Sphaerichthys sp.
Common Name: Samurai Gourami
Type: Freshwater Labyrinth Fish
Adult Size: Approximately 4–5 cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Minimum Aquarium: 60 L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 4.5–6.5
Water Hardness: Very Soft
Diet: Omnivore / Micro-predator
Tank Level: Midwater to Upper Levels
Suitable For: Blackwater aquariums, planted tanks, biotope aquariums and peaceful community setups
They are better suited to aquarists with some experience. They appreciate very soft, acidic and stable water and can be sensitive to sudden changes.
They can be kept individually or in carefully planned groups depending on the aquarium. If keeping multiple specimens, provide plenty of plants, visual barriers and hiding places.
They have relatively small mouths and appreciate small foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, frozen foods and appropriately sized quality micro pellets.
Yes. They are generally peaceful but can be shy and may become territorial or stressed in unsuitable conditions.
Yes, but choose tank mates carefully. Small, peaceful species that prefer similar soft, acidic conditions are the best companions.
Using hard, alkaline water
Samurai Gourami generally perform best in very soft, acidic water.
Adding them to an immature aquarium
A mature, biologically stable aquarium is strongly recommended.
Keeping them with aggressive fish
Their peaceful and relatively shy nature makes them unsuitable for boisterous or aggressive tank mates.
Using excessive water flow
They prefer calm, sheltered environments rather than strong current.
Not providing cover
Dense plants, floating plants, driftwood and leaf litter help them feel secure.
This product is for in-store purchase only. Available for in-store pickup.
We stand behind everything we sell. If something is not right, get in touch and we will make it right. See our returns policy for the details.
This fish has been through our dedicated quarantine system and is feeding, settled and health-checked before sale. We still recommend acclimating slowly and quarantining new additions at home. Our team is happy to talk you through the right setup - just ask.