Croaking Gourami (Trichopsis vittata)
 
The Croaking Gourami is a peaceful, fascinating dwarf species known for the soft “croaking” or “clicking” sounds males make during courtship and territorial displays. Their subtle colouring, shimmering blue highlights, and calm temperament make them an excellent choice for planted and community aquariums. A hardy and adaptable fish, they thrive in well-structured tanks with gentle filtration and plenty of hiding spots.
 
Care Sheet
Scientific Name: Trichopsis vittata
Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam)
Temperament: Peaceful, shy
Adult Size: 5–6 cm
Life Expectancy: 3–5 years
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Minimum Tank Size: 40 litres
 
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Water Flow: Low / gentle
 
Tank Setup:
Dense plants, floating cover, and low lighting help them feel secure
Dark substrate enhances their natural colours
Use gentle filtration to avoid strong currents
Provide driftwood, caves, and leaf litter for natural behaviour
 
Feeding:
Omnivorous. Offer a mix of:
Quality micro-pellets
Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)
Live foods where possible
Occasional vegetable-based foods
 
Behaviour & Compatibility:
Peaceful and shy; best with small, non-aggressive tankmates
Keep in pairs or groups of 4–6 for natural social behaviour
Males may display and “croak,” but aggression is usually mild
Good tankmates include small rasboras, peaceful tetras, small loaches, dwarf corydoras species, and other gentle gouramis.
 
Breeding:
Bubble-nest builders
Slightly warmer water and floating plants encourage spawning
Male guards the nest until fry hatch