Species profile
Samurai Gourami
Sphaerichthys vaillanti
Peaceful
Hard care
90 L minimum aquarium
5–6 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A sensitive blackwater specialist. Husbandry should emphasise stability, very soft acidic water and low competition rather than generic gourami care.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
25–29 °C
pH
4–6.5
GH
0–4 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
0.8
Peaceful and easily intimidated. Keep in a calm group or species-focused setup, avoiding large or boisterous tankmates.
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
4–6 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
90 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Sphaerichthys vaillanti
Alternative names
Samurai Gourami, Vaillant's Chocolate Gourami
Native range
Indonesia, Borneo (Kalimantan), Kapuas basin.
Natural habitat
Specialist blackwater fish from soft, acidic forest waters. Use leaf litter, roots/branches, floating cover, subdued lighting and extremely stable water chemistry with negligible nitrate accumulation.
Diet & feeding
Small invertebrate feeder. Offer live/frozen Artemia, daphnia, cyclops, mosquito larvae and similar foods; shy fish can be outcompeted by rapid feeders.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are often the more strongly patterned/coloured sex in mature fish, while males may appear more subdued; condition and provenance can affect appearance.
Breeding
Paternal mouthbrooder. A compatible pair courts in quiet cover and the male carries the brood; disturbance and unsuitable water can cause brood loss.