Thicklip Gourami

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The Thicklip Gourami (Trichogaster labiosa) is an attractive freshwater fish known for its distinctive thick lips, elegant fins and warm orange, reddish-brown and turquoise markings. Its calm swimming style and appealing colours make it a popular choice for planted aquariums and peaceful freshwater community tanks.

Native to southern Myanmar in Southeast Asia, this species inhabits slow-moving, vegetated waters where plants and floating vegetation provide shelter. Selectively bred varieties, including the popular Sunset Thicklip Gourami, display more intense orange and red colouration, creating a vibrant focal point in a planted aquarium. 

The Thicklip Gourami has a laterally compressed body, flowing dorsal and anal fins, and delicate thread-like pelvic fins that help it explore its surroundings. Males generally develop brighter colours and a more pointed dorsal fin, while females tend to have a fuller body and subtler markings.

Behaviour and Aquarium Suitability

Thicklip Gouramis are generally peaceful, moderately active fish that spend much of their time in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium. They are a good option for community aquariums when housed with compatible, non-aggressive fish.

An aquarium of 75–100 litres or larger is a sensible choice, particularly for a pair or small group. Provide dense planting around the sides and back, floating plants for cover, and open swimming areas. Gentle water movement is preferred, as this species naturally inhabits calmer environments.

Thicklip Gouramis belong to the labyrinth fish group, meaning they can breathe atmospheric oxygen by taking gulps of air at the surface. Ensure they have unobstructed access to the water surface and use a secure aquarium lid.

Feeding and Nutrition

Thicklip Gouramis are omnivores and readily accept a varied diet. Offer quality tropical flakes or small pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia and brine shrimp.

Small, regular meals help maintain good body condition and support vibrant colouration. Feed once or twice daily, offering only what the fish can consume within a few minutes. A varied diet is particularly beneficial for maintaining the rich orange and red tones of Sunset varieties.

Compatibility and Specific Care Requirements

Thicklip Gouramis generally suit peaceful community fish, including rasboras, appropriately sized tetras, corydoras catfish and kuhli loaches. Avoid aggressive fish, persistent fin-nippers and highly territorial species. Males may compete with one another, particularly in confined aquariums without sufficient cover.

Maintain stable water parameters, good filtration and regular partial water changes. Thicklip Gouramis can build bubble nests during breeding, with males guarding the eggs. Floating plants and calm surface conditions can help support this natural behaviour.

With their attractive colours, interesting labyrinth-fish behaviour and manageable care requirements, Thicklip Gouramis are an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a distinctive centrepiece for a peaceful freshwater aquarium.

Quick Care Guide

Care values are general husbandry guidelines for Trichogaster labiosa. Individual fish may vary in size and temperament. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How big do Thicklip Gouramis grow?

They generally reach around 8–10 cm as adults. Provide sufficient swimming space and cover for their full adult size.

2. Are Thicklip Gouramis suitable for beginners?

Yes. They are relatively adaptable and accept a range of prepared foods. A fully cycled aquarium, stable water conditions and compatible tankmates are important for success.

3. What do Thicklip Gouramis eat?

They eat tropical flakes, small pellets, frozen foods and live foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp. A varied diet supports healthy growth and colouration.

4. Can Thicklip Gouramis live with other community fish?

Yes. They generally coexist well with peaceful tetras, rasboras and suitable bottom-dwelling fish. Avoid aggressive species and persistent fin-nippers.

5. Do Thicklip Gouramis need to live in groups?

No, they do not require a large shoal. They can be kept singly or in compatible pairs. If keeping several together, provide adequate space, plants and visual barriers to reduce territorial disputes.

6. What is a Sunset Thicklip Gourami?

The Sunset Thicklip Gourami is a selectively bred colour variety of Trichogaster labiosa with enhanced orange, red and golden tones. Its basic care requirements are similar to those of other Thicklip Gouramis.

Common Mistakes

1. Choosing an unsuitable tankmate: Aggressive fish and fin-nippers can cause stress and damage delicate fins. Choose peaceful species with compatible water requirements.

2. Providing insufficient cover: A bare aquarium can leave these fish feeling exposed. Add plants, floating vegetation and sheltered areas.

3. Blocking access to the surface: Thicklip Gouramis need to breathe atmospheric oxygen. Keep the water surface accessible and unobstructed.

4. Creating excessive water flow: Strong currents can make calm-water conditions difficult to maintain. Use effective filtration while keeping water movement gentle.

5. Feeding only one food type: A varied diet supports better overall condition. Combine quality prepared foods with appropriate frozen or live options.

6. Ignoring territorial behaviour: Males may compete, particularly during breeding. Provide adequate space and visual barriers, and separate fish if persistent aggression develops.