pygmy gourami

Tiny, peaceful, and wonderfully charming — the Pygmy Gourami (Trichopsis pumila), also known as the Dwarf Croaking Gourami, is one of the smallest and most delightful gouramis in the freshwater hobby. Named for its remarkable ability to produce audible croaking sounds by vibrating its pectoral fins, the Pygmy Gourami is a fascinating and endearing nano fish for planted aquariums.

Overview

Appearance

The Pygmy Gourami displays a pale, translucent body with a row of iridescent blue-green to turquoise spots along the lateral line and scattered across the body and fins. The fins display beautiful iridescent blue and red highlights, particularly in males during breeding condition. Under aquarium lighting, the iridescent spots and fin markings shimmer and sparkle, giving this tiny fish a jewel-like quality that belies its small size.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 2 – 15 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group
• Plants & Decor: Heavily planted tanks with floating plants and hiding spots; gentle filtration essential — they dislike strong currents

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: Micro pellets, nano flake food, and small gourami-specific foods
• Treats: Baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia, and small bloodworms

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

One of the most peaceful gouramis available. Perfect for nano community tanks. Good tank mates include Chili Rasboras, Ember Tetras, small Corydoras, and Neocaridina shrimp. Avoid any boisterous or larger fish.

Breeding

Bubble nest builders. Males construct a small bubble nest under floating plants and court females with a croaking display. Eggs are deposited in the nest and guarded by the male. Fry hatch in 24–48 hours.

The Pygmy Gourami is a tiny, sparkling, and fascinatingly vocal fish that brings jewel-like beauty and gentle personality to any nano planted aquarium. A true gem for the planted tank enthusiast.