Thick-lipped Gourami – Trichogaster labiosa

Among labyrinth fish, the thick-lipped gourami, Trichogaster labiosa, holds a special place in the hearts of aquarists. Attractive coloration, peaceful temperament and interesting behaviour make it an ideal resident for both beginner and advanced aquarium keepers. Properly arranged tanks bring out its full potential, and in MB Store you will find high-quality aquariums and technical equipment that help create a healthy, stable underwater world for these charming fish.

Natural environment and appearance of Trichogaster labiosa

The thick-lipped gourami originates from Southeast Asia, where it inhabits slow-flowing rivers, irrigation ditches, rice paddies and densely vegetated ponds. In such waters the current is minimal, the surface is often covered in floating plants and the lighting is strongly diffused. This natural environment has formed a fish that feels best in calm, well-planted aquaria with plenty of hiding places.

Characteristic thick, fleshy lips, from which the species takes its name, are used to browse and pick food from plant surfaces and decorations. The body is slightly laterally compressed, elongated, with a gently arched back. Colouration can vary from subtle bronze and olive tones to more intense shades of red, orange or blue, depending on the breeding line and lighting conditions in the aquarium.

Males usually display more vivid colours and slightly elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females tend to be slightly rounder, especially during the spawning season, when their abdomen fills with eggs. Fully grown individuals usually reach 8–10 cm in length, which makes them suitable for medium-sized home aquaria. When planning a setup, it is worth remembering that, like other labyrinth fish, they frequently approach the surface to breathe air.

Behaviour, labyrinth organ and social interactions

Like other gourami, Trichogaster labiosa possesses a special labyrinth organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric oxygen. Thanks to this adaptation, the fish can survive in low-oxygen waters, but in home aquaria the organ also influences its behaviour. The fish regularly swim to the surface, and therefore a calm top layer of water and easy access to air are essential. Sudden drafts or frequent opening and closing of the cover should be avoided, as this may stress them.

In terms of temperament, the thick-lipped gourami is usually peaceful, although males may display mild territorial behaviour, especially during spawning or when the aquarium is too small. This does not usually involve serious fights, more often it is limited to short chases or spreading fins as a display. In properly arranged and spacious tanks, such behaviour is an interesting spectacle rather than a problem.

These fish are intelligent, observant and quickly learn to recognise the person who feeds them. Over time they can start to approach the front glass when someone enters the room. They thrive in community aquaria, provided that tank mates are chosen carefully. Calm species of similar size are best, while aggressive or very fast fish can cause stress or outcompete them for food. A harmonious group, subdued lighting and stable water conditions help reduce the already modest level of aggression between males.

Setting up the ideal aquarium for thick-lipped gourami

To provide Trichogaster labiosa with optimal living conditions, it is worth starting with a suitable tank. While a pair can live in about 60 litres, a more comfortable solution is a 80–100 litre aquarium, especially if you plan a group or community setting. MB Store offers a wide range of modern aquaria of such capacities and larger, allowing you to select a tank that fits both the needs of the fish and the available space at home.

Decorating the aquarium should be carried out with the species’ natural environment in mind. A dark substrate, numerous roots, branches and stones will visually warm the interior and offer necessary hiding spots. The most important element, however, are plants. Dense thickets in the rear and sides, combined with free swimming space in the centre, create a balanced layout. Floating plants, such as Salvinia or frogbit, help diffuse light and make the fish feel secure near the surface.

Equipment also has a decisive impact on the comfort of these gourami. A gentle, efficient filter is essential, but the flow should not be too strong. Models with adjustable output or spray bars are perfect, as they limit turbulence at the surface. At MB Store you will find filters, heaters and lighting systems tailored to different tank sizes, allowing you to match their efficiency with the needs of thick-lipped gourami. It is important to use covers or lids; the fish may jump, and additionally warm, moist air above the surface protects the delicate labyrinth organ.

Water parameters and maintenance practices

Trichogaster labiosa is relatively tolerant of water parameters, which contributes to its reputation as a suitable species for less experienced aquarists. Nevertheless, stable and appropriate conditions significantly increase immunity and longevity. The ideal temperature is between 24–28°C. A reliable heater with thermostat, correctly matched to the tank size, helps maintain this range throughout the year, which is especially important in colder months.

The water should be slightly acidic to neutral or slightly alkaline, with pH in the range of 6.5–7.5. General hardness can be low to medium, though extremely hard water is better avoided. Regular measuring with basic aquarium tests allows quick reaction to deviations. MB Store supplies test kits and conditioners that help stabilise parameters and improve water quality, including preparations that neutralise harmful substances or add beneficial trace elements.

Weekly water changes of around 20–30% of the volume are a key part of maintenance. Regular vacuuming of the substrate removes accumulated organic debris that could negatively affect water chemistry. Filtration media should be rinsed in aquarium water rather than tap water to preserve beneficial bacteria. Gentle, yet systematic care ensures a clear, clean environment, which is vital for the health and vivid coloration of thick-lipped gourami.

Feeding and nutrition

The thick-lipped gourami is an omnivore, which greatly simplifies feeding. In nature it consumes insect larvae, small crustaceans, zooplankton and plant material. In the aquarium, the basis of the diet should be high-quality flake or granulated food dedicated to omnivorous tropical fish. Such products provide a balanced composition of proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. MB Store offers complete feeds from proven manufacturers, making it easier to build a varied, nutritious menu.

Live and frozen foods are an excellent supplement. Bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp and mosquito larvae stimulate natural hunting instincts and positively influence the condition of the fish. It is advisable to administer these delicacies in moderation, about two or three times a week, to avoid overloading the digestive system. The fish readily accept them and quickly learn to search for food near decorations and plants.

Plant components are also important. Some thick-lipped gourami nibble at soft leaves or algae films, but it is worth offering them dedicated vegetable flakes or foods with added spirulina. Feeding should be carried out in small portions two to three times daily, so that all food is eaten within a few minutes. Overfeeding leads to water deterioration and health problems, including obesity and digestive issues. Observing the fish during feeding helps adjust the amount and type of food to their actual needs.

Breeding thick-lipped gourami in the home aquarium

Breeding Trichogaster labiosa is an engaging experience and, with proper preparation, achievable even for aquarists with moderate experience. A separate breeding tank of about 40–60 litres is helpful. It should be shallow, with a low water level of around 15–20 cm. Gentle filtration, stable temperature of about 27–28°C and the presence of floating plants provide suitable conditions for building a bubble nest. A lid is particularly important, keeping warm air above the surface steady.

Before breeding, the chosen pair should be conditioned with abundant food rich in protein, especially live and frozen varieties. The male will usually begin to build a bubble nest under a broad leaf or at the tank edges. After the female is introduced, a courtship follows, during which the male wraps his body around hers, and the eggs are released and fertilised. The male carefully collects the eggs into the nest and guards them, driving the female away once spawning is complete.

The female should be removed after spawning to prevent harassment. The eggs hatch in about a day, and after several days the fry start swimming freely. At this point the male should also be removed. The fry initially require microscopic food, such as infusoria or specialised liquid fry foods, then can be gradually transitioned to newly hatched brine shrimp. Clean water, gentle aeration and frequent small water changes are crucial to their healthy development and to minimising losses during this sensitive stage.

Suitable tank mates and community setups

Selecting companions for thick-lipped gourami requires consideration of their calm nature and preference for peaceful surroundings. Ideal tank mates include small, non-aggressive species such as many tetras, rasboras or peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish. Smaller livebearers and some dwarf rainbowfish can also make good neighbours, as long as they do not nip fins or compete excessively for food.

It is better to avoid combining Trichogaster labiosa with large, predatory fish or highly territorial cichlids. Constantly stressed gourami may hide, lose colour and become more susceptible to disease. Additional caution is needed when keeping multiple labyrinth species together, as males can display increased territoriality, especially in tight quarters. A well-planned layout with numerous plants and visual barriers between parts of the aquarium helps reduce tension and enables each fish to establish its own microterritory.

Thoughtful stocking, measured by both the species mix and the total biomass, leads to a more stable ecosystem. Overcrowding inevitably generates competition and deteriorates water quality, so planning should be based on the final adult sizes of all fish. When the group is balanced and the environment carefully maintained, thick-lipped gourami show their full range of behaviours and become a captivating focal point of a community aquarium.

Health, disease prevention and the role of quality equipment

Under proper conditions Trichogaster labiosa is a hardy fish, but like all aquarium inhabitants it is susceptible to stress-related ailments. Weak immunity can lead to parasitic infections, fin rot or fungal issues. The first lines of defence are stable water parameters, varied nutrition and minimising sudden changes in the environment. New fish or plants should be quarantined, which greatly reduces the risk of introducing pathogens into an established aquarium.

Observation is a key tool of preventive care. Any sudden changes in behaviour, such as loss of appetite, hiding, rubbing against decorations or clamped fins, may signal emerging problems. Early intervention, supported by precise testing of water parameters, allows for swift corrective measures. MB Store offers not only aquaria and filters but also useful accessories such as test kits, conditioners and medicines that help keep your water world safe and healthy.

Reliable filtration, efficient heating and properly chosen lighting are not just technical additions but essential components of a successful aquarium. Their correct configuration ensures constant temperature, high water quality and a day–night cycle that reflects the natural rhythm of the fish. Investing in proven equipment pays off through lower failure rates, reduced stress for the fish and an overall more stable ecosystem in which thick-lipped gourami can thrive for many years.

Why thick-lipped gourami is a great choice for your aquarium

When planning a new aquarium or refreshing an existing one, thick-lipped gourami is worth considering for many reasons. Its moderate size makes it suitable for typical home tanks, while its gentle nature allows coexistence with a range of peaceful species. Attractive colours, especially in selectively bred forms, mean the fish quickly becomes a centre of attention and an aesthetic highlight of the layout.

At the same time, Trichogaster labiosa is tolerant of minor mistakes, which is invaluable for novice aquarists learning the basics of water chemistry and aquarium maintenance. The species rewards systematic care with interesting displays of behaviour, from building bubble nests to subtle hierarchy interactions between individuals. Every new observation adds depth to the hobby and encourages further exploration of the underwater world.

In MB Store you will find not only aquaria and technical equipment, but also the necessary accessories to create a friendly home for thick-lipped gourami: from filters and heaters to decorative elements and quality food. Combining reliable gear with knowledge about the needs of these fish allows you to build a safe, stable and visually pleasing environment in which Trichogaster labiosa will show its best side and bring long-lasting satisfaction from aquaristics.

FAQ

How many thick-lipped gourami can I keep together in one aquarium
For a tank of about 80–100 litres, a small group of 4–6 thick-lipped gourami is usually appropriate, preferably with a predominance of females to reduce tension between males. The aquarium should be densely planted, with many hiding spots and visual barriers. This allows each fish to establish a small territory and significantly reduces the risk of conflicts.

What is the ideal water temperature for Trichogaster labiosa
The ideal temperature range for thick-lipped gourami is 24–28°C. It is best to maintain a stable value in the middle of this range, as sudden drops or rises may weaken the fish’s immune system. A reliable heater with thermostat is essential, especially in rooms with changing temperatures, because the species is sensitive to prolonged exposure to cold water.

Can thick-lipped gourami live with shrimp and snails
Adult shrimp may sometimes coexist with thick-lipped gourami, but tiny shrimp and their offspring are often treated as natural food. Snails are generally safer tank mates and can even help control algae and leftover food. When planning such a community, it is worth providing dense plant cover, mosses and hiding spots, so invertebrates have better chances of avoiding unwanted attention.

Do I need a special filter for thick-lipped gourami
A special type of filter is not required, but the flow should be gentle, as thick-lipped gourami dislike strong currents, particularly near the surface. Filters with adjustable output or spray bars are ideal and help distribute water movement evenly. Good filtration supports biological balance, maintains transparency and, combined with regular maintenance, reduces the risk of disease outbreaks.

Is breeding thick-lipped gourami difficult for beginners
Breeding Trichogaster labiosa is considered moderately easy, provided you prepare a separate breeding tank and ensure suitable conditions, such as warm water and floating plants. The main challenges are care of the eggs and rearing of tiny fry, which demand small, frequent feedings and clean water. With patience and basic knowledge, many hobbyists successfully raise their first generation at home.