Species profile
Sparkling Gourami
Trichopsis pumila
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Tiny gourami that can croak softly. Great for nano planted tanks.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
25–28 °C
pH
6–7
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.5
Shy, social labyrinth fish that does best in a calm group with dense planting and subdued tankmates. Males may spar/display but serious damage is uncommon with space and cover.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Trichopsis pumila
Alternative names
Sparkling Gourami, Pygmy Croaking Gourami
Native range
Southeast Asia, including the lower Mekong region and associated lowland drainages.
Natural habitat
Shallow, densely vegetated slow or still waters. Use floating/emergent cover, gentle filtration and easy access to the surface.
Diet & feeding
Offer small floating/midwater foods with frequent frozen or live micro-invertebrates; very large or coarse foods are unsuitable.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males tend to have longer, more pointed dorsal/anal fins and stronger colour; females are fuller-bodied when gravid.
Breeding
Male builds a small bubble nest beneath leaves or among dense vegetation. Eggs and larvae are tended near the nest; fry require microscopic first foods.