Kissing Gourami – Helostoma temminckii

Kissing gourami, or Helostoma temminckii, is one of those aquarium fish that always attracts attention. Its unusual “kissing” behavior, calm nature and interesting biology make it a fascinating resident for medium and large aquariums. For aquarists who enjoy observing natural interactions and want to create a more original community tank, the kissing gourami can be a rewarding and long‑lived choice – provided its specific needs are understood.

Origin, appearance and natural behavior of the kissing gourami

The kissing gourami comes from Southeast Asia, mainly Thailand, Indonesia and surrounding regions. In nature it inhabits slow‑flowing rivers, marshes, irrigation canals and flooded fields rich in vegetation. The water there is often warm, slightly turbid and poor in oxygen, which has greatly influenced the evolution of this species and its adaptability to aquarium life.

This fish can grow up to 25–30 cm in length in nature, and in home aquariums it usually reaches 15–20 cm, which is still a respectable size. The body is laterally flattened, with a high back and relatively small fins in relation to body size. The most recognizable feature is, of course, the mouth: thick, fleshy lips lined with tiny horny structures that allow the fish to scrape algae and biofilm from surfaces.

Several color varieties are available in the aquarium trade. The most common are:

• Natural greenish or grey‑green form with a subtle pattern on the body
• Pink or “kiss pink” variety – popular due to its delicate, pastel shade
• Marbled forms that combine light and dark spots

The famous “kissing” behavior is not a romantic gesture, but rather a form of ritualized combat or comparison of strength. Two fish press their mouths together and gently push each other. Usually there is no damage, but this behavior shows hierarchy and territoriality, especially between males or in confined spaces.

Because kissing gourami is a labyrinth fish, it possesses a special organ (labyrinth) that allows it to breathe atmospheric air. From time to time it swims to the surface to take a gulp of air, which is perfectly normal. This adaptation makes the species more tolerant of lower levels of dissolved oxygen, but it does not mean that water quality can be neglected.

Tank size, water parameters and equipment

One of the most common mistakes when purchasing kissing gouramis is underestimating their final size. Young specimens are often sold at 4–6 cm and may seem suitable for smaller tanks. However, these fish grow rapidly and need a spacious environment. For a single adult kissing gourami, a minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended, while a group of 3–4 individuals requires 250–300 liters or more.

Length and surface area are more important than height, as the fish are active swimmers and frequently visit the surface. A tank at least 100–120 cm long is ideal for a small group. The cover must fit well, because labyrinth fish can jump, and they also need warm, moist air above the water surface to avoid infections of the labyrinth organ.

Recommended water parameters:

• Temperature: 24–28 °C
• pH: 6.5–8.0 (they are quite adaptable)
• General hardness (GH): 5–20 dGH
• Carbonate hardness (KH): 3–12 KH

Kissing gouramis are relatively hardy, but like all fish they react badly to sudden changes and long‑term exposure to ammonia or nitrite. Efficient filtration, regular water changes and moderate water flow are essential. While in nature they inhabit slow waters, in the aquarium a moderate current from the filter outlet is usually well tolerated and helps maintain oxygenation and cleanliness.

In the MB Store assortment you will find suitable aquariums of various capacities, as well as filters, heaters, lighting and other aquarium equipment that make it easier to prepare optimal conditions for this species. When choosing equipment, pay attention to the efficiency of the filter (at least 4–6 times the tank volume per hour) and stable temperature control, as kissing gouramis come from warm regions and are sensitive to long‑term cooling.

Although they tolerate a wide range of chemical parameters, they do not tolerate neglected tanks. Regular partial water changes of about 25–30% weekly help maintain stable conditions. It is also worth monitoring nitrate (NO3) levels, which should ideally be kept below 20–30 mg/l, especially if other sensitive species are present in the aquarium.

Decor, plants and aquascaping for kissing gouramis

The arrangement of the aquarium has a big impact on the behavior and well‑being of kissing gouramis. Because they are active and can grow large, decor should not overly limit the swimming space. At the same time, these fish appreciate cover and visual barriers, which help reduce aggression and stress.

A good concept is to create open areas in the central part of the tank, with more dense planting and decorations along the sides and in the background. This way the fish can swim freely, but still have places to hide or retreat from each other if necessary.

Suitable elements of decor include:

• Root wood and branches that create natural shelters and shadows
• Stones and rock structures placed so they do not pose a risk of collapse
• Durable plants that attach to wood or stones (e.g. Anubias, Microsorum, mosses)
• Background stem plants such as Hygrophila, Limnophila or Vallisneria

Kissing gouramis are known for nibbling plants, especially soft‑leaved species. Their lips are adapted to scraping surfaces, so they will gladly remove algae from decorations and leaves – but sometimes also healthy plant tissue. To reduce the risk of excessive damage, choose more robust plants, provide a rich plant‑based diet (more on this later), and design the tank so that not all decor is made of delicate species.

Floating plants can be very beneficial. They offer shade, help the fish feel secure and slightly muffle the light. Species like Salvinia, Pistia or water lettuce work well, but you must ensure that access to the surface is not completely blocked, because kissing gouramis need to breathe atmospheric air. Leaving free zones for air access is crucial.

Substrate is not critical for this species – sand or fine gravel both work. When planning the aquascape, remember that the fish can reach surprisingly large dimensions; fragile constructions or thin plant stems placed right at the front pane may soon be pushed aside by their movements.

MB Store offers not only aquariums but also a wide range of substrates, decorative woods, stones and live or artificial plants, which allows you to design a coherent, functional environment tailored to the needs of kissing gouramis and other inhabitants of your tank.

Feeding and nutrition of Helostoma temminckii

Nutrition is a key aspect of successful fishkeeping, and with kissing gouramis it is particularly interesting. In their natural environment they are omnivores with a strong leaning toward plant and periphyton grazing. They scrape algae, microorganisms and plant tissue from surfaces using their distinctive lips. In the aquarium this means they should not be treated as purely carnivorous fish.

A balanced diet for kissing gouramis should include:

• High‑quality flake or granulated foods with a significant plant component (spirulina, algae, vegetables)
• Specialized vegetable wafers and tablets that sink slowly
• Blanched vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, peas (without skins) or lettuce
• Occasional animal protein – bloodworms, daphnia, Artemia, high‑quality frozen foods

Because they are relatively large fish, they can consume substantial amounts of food. It is better to feed smaller portions 2–3 times a day than one large meal. This helps maintain water quality and prevents digestive problems. Uneaten food should not remain in the tank for long, as it quickly decomposes and loads the filtration system.

Some aquarists notice that well‑fed kissing gouramis more readily scrape algae and less aggressively attack delicate plants. While there are no guarantees, providing them with varied, rich food that meets their nutritional needs significantly reduces the risk of them turning into “underwater lawn‑mowers” that devastate the aquascape.

It is also important to ensure that food is accessible to all individuals. In a community tank, faster or more agile species may try to steal food from kissing gouramis. Using sinking tablets and spreading food over a larger surface area helps ensure even access for all fish.

Temperament, social behavior and tank mates

Kissing gouramis are generally considered peaceful fish, but with some nuances. Their “kissing” is actually a form of non‑lethal combat: they press their mouths together and push. In a sufficiently large, well‑arranged aquarium, this usually does not lead to injuries, but in too small or overcrowded tanks it can become a sign of stress and constant tension.

With age, some individuals may become more territorial, especially males. It is therefore wise to avoid keeping several adult males in small aquariums. In larger tanks with visual barriers (plants, wood, stones), aggression is usually dispersed, and the fish concentrate on mild jostling rather than serious fights.

When selecting tank mates, consider the size and behavior of kissing gouramis:

• Avoid very small fish (e.g. microrasboras, neon tetras), which may be seen as food as the gouramis grow
• Do not combine them with highly aggressive cichlids that could harass or injure them
• Ideal companions include medium‑sized barbs, larger tetras, peaceful cichlids like certain Geophagus species, and robust catfish
• Other labyrinth fishes can cohabit if the tank is large, but monitor for territorial interactions

Slow‑moving long‑fin species (for example some fancy angelfish or bettas) may be at risk, not so much because kissing gouramis are fin‑nippers by nature, but because in confined spaces they can accidentally damage fins during conflicts or competition for food.

Interestingly, although they are capable of living in groups, kissing gouramis do not form tight shoals. They swim singly or in loose associations, occasionally interacting. The presence of conspecifics often stimulates natural behavior and can make them more confident, but it also requires adequate space and carefully planned decor.

If you are planning a community aquarium and are unsure whether kissing gouramis will suit your existing fish, it is worth consulting with experienced aquarists or specialists at MB Store, who can help you select appropriate tank mates and equipment to minimize potential problems.

Breeding kissing gouramis in the aquarium

Breeding Helostoma temminckii is less common than with some other gourami species, mainly due to their size and specific requirements. However, for determined and well‑prepared aquarists, it can be an intriguing challenge. Kissing gouramis are open‑water egg scatterers; they do not build bubble nests like many labyrinth fish.

To attempt breeding, a separate, spacious tank is usually necessary, at least 150–200 liters for a pair or group. It is important to provide gentle filtration, plants (including floating ones) and slightly higher water temperature in the range of 27–28 °C. Well‑conditioned fish should be fed a rich diet with a large share of live and frozen foods, as well as quality plant‑based feed.

Sexing kissing gouramis can be difficult because the differences between males and females are subtle. Females are often more robust and rounded, especially before spawning, while males may be slightly slimmer and more elongated. Observation of behavior also helps, as males can be more insistent in courtship.

During spawning, the pair or group scatters eggs in the water column and among plants. The eggs float, and many accumulate among floating vegetation or near the surface. There is no parental care; in fact, adults may eat their own eggs. That is why, after spawning, breeders often remove the parents or transfer eggs to a separate rearing tank.

Eggs hatch after about 24–36 hours (depending on temperature). The larvae initially feed on their yolk sacs, and when they start swimming freely, they need very fine food: infusoria, liquid fry food or micro‑worms. Later, newly hatched brine shrimp can be introduced. Maintaining excellent water quality is crucial, as fry of labyrinth fish can be sensitive to pollution and sudden parameter swings.

Because the fry grow at different rates, cannibalism can occur – larger individuals may eat smaller ones. Sorting fry by size and providing abundant food helps reduce losses. However, this process is time‑consuming and requires appropriate containers and equipment.

For most hobby aquarists, kissing gouramis will be fish kept primarily for their appearance and behavior, not for breeding. Nevertheless, understanding their reproductive strategy helps explain certain aspects of their ecology and can be an additional motivation to create conditions as close as possible to their natural environment.

Health, longevity and responsible care

With proper care, kissing gouramis can live 10–15 years, and sometimes even longer. This means that purchasing them is a long‑term commitment. Before introducing them into the aquarium, consider whether you can provide appropriate conditions for many years, including a large enough tank, regular maintenance and adequate filtration.

Most health problems in kissing gouramis are associated with poor water quality, stress and inadequate diet. Common ailments include:

• Fin rot and bacterial infections – often a consequence of mechanical injuries and poor hygiene
• Parasitic infections – for example, ich (white spot disease), to which many tropical fish are susceptible
• Problems with the labyrinth organ – result of cold, dry air above the water surface or sudden chilling
• Digestive issues and obesity – from feeding too fatty or monotonous food

Preventive actions are much more effective than treatment. It is recommended to quarantine new fish before introducing them into the main aquarium, carefully acclimate them to new water parameters, and avoid rapid, drastic changes in temperature or pH. Regular observation of behavior is extremely useful: a fish that suddenly stops eating, hides constantly or breathes heavily at the surface may signal that something is wrong.

Another important aspect is ethical purchasing. Choose trusted sources and stores that care about proper transport and acclimation. MB Store places emphasis on quality equipment and responsible fishkeeping – using solid filters, heaters and testing kits significantly reduces the risk of diseases and improves the comfort of fish.

Because kissing gouramis grow large, overcrowding is a real threat. Too many big fish in a small tank causes chronic stress, which in turn weakens immunity and opens the door to infections. If you already keep other sizable species, consider whether the aquarium volume and filtration capacity are sufficient to add kissing gouramis without compromising welfare.

When they are given space, stable parameters and a varied diet, kissing gouramis reward the aquarist with impressive size, interesting interactions and long life. Their presence adds character to the aquarium, and the famous “kisses” never fail to intrigue observers.

Equipment and support for keepers of kissing gouramis

Every successful setup with kissing gouramis starts with well‑chosen aquarium equipment. Because these fish are relatively large and produce a considerable amount of waste, solid and reliable gear is not a luxury, but a necessity. MB Store offers a broad selection of aquariums and filters, internal and external, that can be adapted to the size and stocking of your tank.

When planning a tank for Helostoma temminckii, pay particular attention to:

• Filtration – external canister filters or powerful internal filters with biological media
• Heating – stable, adjustable heater matched to the tank volume
• Lighting – adapted to plant requirements, with the possibility of dimming if needed
• A tight but ventilated cover – to protect against jumps and maintain warm, humid air
• Air pumps – optional, but helpful in tanks with high stocking

Accessories such as thermostats, timers, automatic feeders and water test kits make long‑term maintenance easier. They help maintain stable conditions, which is particularly important for large fish with a long life expectancy. By choosing equipment consciously, you not only improve the comfort of the fish, but also make everyday aquarium care simpler and more predictable.

MB Store’s range also includes substrates, decor, water conditioners and specialized foods, including plant‑based granules and flakes suitable for kissing gouramis. With a well‑selected set of products and a bit of knowledge, even intermediate aquarists can successfully keep this impressive species, building a stable and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Summarizing, the kissing gourami is a remarkable labyrinth fish that combines unusual looks with interesting behavior. It requires spacious aquariums, good filtration, a diet rich in plant ingredients and thoughtful selection of tank mates. When these conditions are met, Helostoma temminckii becomes a true star of the aquarium – durable, active and constantly surprising with its “kisses” and interactions with the environment.

FAQ – Kissing gourami (Helostoma temminckii)

Is the kissing gourami suitable for beginners?
Kissing gouramis are hardy and tolerant of a range of water parameters, so technically they can be kept by beginners. However, they grow quite large and need spacious aquariums, strong filtration and thoughtful tank mates. For a first small tank they are not ideal; they work better as a project for aquarists ready for medium or large setups.

How big does a kissing gourami get in the aquarium?
In home aquariums, kissing gouramis usually reach 15–20 cm, although in very large, well‑maintained tanks they may grow a bit more. Because of their size and body mass, they need at least 150 liters for a single specimen and 250–300 liters or more for a group. When planning, always assume the final adult size, not the young fish seen in the store.

Why do kissing gouramis “kiss” each other?
The characteristic “kissing” is not an expression of affection but a form of ritualized combat or comparison of strength. Two fish press their fleshy lips together and push, defining hierarchy or territory. In a large, well‑arranged aquarium this behavior is usually harmless; in cramped conditions it may indicate stress or rivalry caused by lack of space.

Do kissing gouramis eat live plants?
Kissing gouramis are omnivores with a strong plant component in their diet. They scrape algae and biofilm off surfaces and often nibble on soft plants. Robust species like Anubias or Java fern usually cope better. Providing plenty of plant‑based foods and vegetables can limit damage, but some degree of nibbling should always be expected in planted tanks.

Can kissing gouramis live with small fish?
Very small fish, such as microrasboras or tiny tetras, may be at risk, especially as the gouramis grow. Medium‑sized, agile species are usually safer companions. When planning a community tank, choose fish that are too large to be seen as prey, but peaceful enough not to harass the gouramis. Always observe interactions and be ready to separate fish if needed.