Sparkling Gourami

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About Sparkling Gourami

The Sparkling Gourami is a tiny and beautifully patterned freshwater fish known for its iridescent blue-green spots, warm brown body and delicate red and blue markings. Its shimmering appearance gives it the "Sparkling" name, making it a standout despite its small size.

Sparkling Gouramis are peaceful, shy fish that thrive in densely planted aquariums with plenty of cover and gentle water movement. They are labyrinth fish, meaning they can breathe atmospheric air from the surface, so access to the water's surface is essential.

They are best kept with other peaceful nano fish and can be maintained individually, as a pair or in small groups depending on the aquarium setup. They may produce a distinctive croaking or clicking sound, particularly during courtship or territorial displays.

A varied diet of small frozen and live foods, along with appropriately sized quality micro pellets, will help maintain their colour and condition.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Trichopsis pumila
Common Name: Sparkling Gourami / Pygmy Gourami
Family: Osphronemidae
Type: Freshwater Fish / Gourami
Adult Size: Approximately 4 cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
Minimum Aquarium: 40 L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
Diet: Omnivore / Carnivore
Tank Level: Top to Midwater
Reef Safe: N/A
Suitable For: Planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does a Sparkling Gourami get?

Sparkling Gouramis are a true nano fish, reaching only around 4 cm as adults.

Are Sparkling Gouramis peaceful?

Yes. They are generally peaceful, although males may display mild territorial behaviour towards each other, particularly when breeding.

Can Sparkling Gouramis be kept in groups?

Yes. They can be kept individually, as a pair or in small groups in a suitably planted aquarium. Providing plenty of cover helps minimise territorial behaviour.

What do Sparkling Gouramis eat?

They prefer small foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, cyclops and appropriately sized micro pellets.

Do Sparkling Gouramis need plants?

They don't strictly require live plants, but dense planting is highly recommended. Plants provide shelter, help them feel secure and create ideal territories.

Why does my Sparkling Gourami make clicking sounds?

Sparkling Gouramis are known for producing croaking or clicking sounds, particularly during courtship and territorial interactions.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them with large or aggressive fish
Their tiny size and peaceful temperament make them vulnerable to bullying.

Using strong water flow
They naturally inhabit slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters and prefer gentle circulation.

Not providing dense cover
Plants, floating vegetation and other sheltered areas help reduce stress.

Overlooking surface access
As labyrinth fish, they need access to atmospheric air at the water's surface.

Feeding food that is too large
Their small mouths require appropriately sized micro foods.