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Three spot gourami
Three spot gourami
Origin
South East Asia
Habitat Size
50-150 Liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
22º-28ºC
Cost in India
₹80 - ₹150
Size
2 - 6 inches (Small)
Diet
Omnivore
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025
Introduction of the Three Spot Gourami
Three Spot Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus) is a beautiful freshwater fish that is very peaceful, has an attractive appearance, and is tolerant. It got its name because of two visible spots situated on either side of its body — the third "spot" being its eye. It is found in shades of blue, gold, and opaline, and Three Spot Gourami is one of the favorite fish of aquarists who vary from beginners to professionals.
They are lively, strong, and laid-back fish and therefore an ideal option for community tanks. However, males sometimes prove to be territorial in nature, and therefore balanced tank management should be offered.
Origin of the Three Spot Gourami
Three Spot Gourami naturally inhabit Southeast Asia, which mainly includes Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia. They inhabit slow rivers, rice fields, and floodplains with aquatic vegetation in nature. Their labyrinth organ also helps them survive under low oxygen conditions and extract oxygen from atmospheric air. Temperament of the Three Spot Gourami
Three Spot Gouramis are generally peaceful, but males will fight with each other or with smaller tank inhabitants in the process of establishing hierarchy. They are extremely smart fish that will continue to investigate their surroundings and even become able to recognize their keepers while being fed.
Three Spot Gourami Compatibility with Other Fish
They coexist well with peaceful, similarly-sized tank inhabitants such as:
- Mollies
- Platies
- Rasboras
- Corydoras catfish
- Rainbowfish
Do not keep them with fin-nipping species like barbs or large cichlids that will nip their long fins. One male to several females is a best method of minimizing aggression.
Price Range of the Three Spot Gourami
Three Spot Gouramis are affordable and readily available. They're typically sold for ₹150–₹400 ($2–$6) depending on how big the body is and coloration. Specialty morphs like the Opaline Gourami will cost a little more.
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large
Habitat Requirements of the Three Spot Gourami
Initial Setup Cost
₹4,000 - ₹12,000
Water Temperature
22º -28ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6 - 7.5
Tank Setup
- Tank Type: Freshwater
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a pair or small group
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand
- Decor: Dense plants, driftwood, and hiding places
- Lighting: Moderate; they can be stressed by bright lighting
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- pH Level: 6.0–8.0
- Water Hardness: 5–20 dGH
Environmental Needs
Give them plenty of surface plants like duckweed or hornwort to give them a sense of security but have some space on the surface for air breathing. They enjoy soft filter current, as they don't appreciate hard currents.
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Decor
Nutritional Guide to the Three Spot Gourami
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹80 - ₹ 150
Three Spot Gouramis are omnivorous and will accept animal protein and plant material.
Ideal Diet Consists of:
- High-quality flakes or pellets
- Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia
- Blanched vegetables like peas or zucchini
Feeding Suggestions:
- Feed every day or alternate every day in small quantities
- Remove unfed food to maintain water quality
- Give diverse foods to promote intense coloration
Health & Care of the Three Spot Gourami
Common Health Issues
Fin rot
Dropsy (swollen abdomen)
Fungus
White spot / ick
Velvet
Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Signs of sickness
Lethargic behaviour
Loss of appetite
Frequent hiding
Dull coloring
Tattered fins
Three Spot Gourami Problems
Velvet Disease (Oodinium)
Infected by parasites as golden dusting on the body.
- Symptom: Fish dulls or rubs against something.
- Cure: Use anti-parasitic medication and low tank lights throughout treatment.
Swim Bladder Disorder
Most often due to overfeeding or poor diet.
- Symptom: Unable to swim vertically or float horizontally.
- Cure: Starve fish one day, then feed blanched peas for digestive aid.
Mouth Fungus (Columnaris)
Bacterial infection from stress or dirty water.
- Symptom: Cottony growths around the fins or mouth.
- Cure: Treat with antibacterial medication and monitor water hygiene.
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do three-spot gourami's eat?
As omnivores, these fish will consume a wide range of foods, such as pellets, live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and vegetable matter. To maintain their health and energy, you must provide them a balanced diet.
How big do three-spot gourami's grow?
Three-spot gourami's can grow up to 4 to 6 inches in length, depending on factors such as diet, tank size, and water quality.
Are three-spot gourami's compatible with other fish?
Generally, three-spot gourami's are peaceful and can coexist with other peaceful fish species of similar size. However, avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish. Suitable tankmates include tetras, rasboras, danios, and other peaceful community fish.