Species profile
Croaking Gourami
Trichopsis vittata
Peaceful
Moderate care
80 L minimum aquarium
5–7 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 4
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
The audible croaking/clicking sounds are produced during social and courtship interactions and are normal behaviour.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
5–7.5
GH
2–15 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: 4
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.9
Generally peaceful but capable of small territorial disputes, especially among males. Dense planting and broken sight lines allow a small group to coexist.
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
3–5 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
80 L
Minimum footprint
70 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Trichopsis vittata
Alternative names
Croaking Gourami
Native range
Mainland South-east Asia, including Mekong and Chao Phraya systems.
Natural habitat
Shallow, slow or standing vegetated waters. Use dense planting, floating cover, subdued areas and gentle surface movement while retaining warm humid air above the water.
Diet & feeding
Takes small insects, crustaceans and zooplankton. Feed quality fine dry foods plus regular small live/frozen foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males usually have more extended fins and can show stronger colour; backlighting may reveal the female's ovaries in mature fish.
Breeding
Bubble-nest spawner. The male builds and guards a surface nest, usually among floating vegetation; breeding pairs may defend the immediate area.