The Croaking Gourami is a fascinating freshwater fish known for its ability to produce croaking or grunting sounds, especially during courtship or when startled. This unique vocalization adds to its charm, making it a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. With a slender body, shimmering bronze coloration, and iridescent blue highlights, this peaceful labyrinth fish is an excellent choice for well-planted community aquariums.
Product Details
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Species: Trichopsis vittata
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Common Names: Croaking Gourami, Talking Gourami, Talking Fish
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Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia)
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Light Requirements: Low to Moderate
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Diet: Omnivorous (Eats both plant and animal matter)
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Maximum Size: 5 – 7 cm (2 – 2.7 inches)
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Care Level: Easy
Aquarium Setup
Croaking Gouramis thrive in densely planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots created by driftwood, floating plants, and caves. Since they are labyrinth fish, they require access to the water’s surface to breathe atmospheric oxygen. A gentle water flow is ideal, as they naturally inhabit slow-moving or still waters such as rice paddies, swamps, and small streams. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a small group.
Water Parameters
Growth and Maintenance
Croaking Gouramis are relatively hardy fish that adapt well to a variety of freshwater setups. They thrive in peaceful community tanks and should be kept in small groups of three or more to encourage social behavior. They are omnivores and should be fed a varied diet, including high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Breeding is similar to that of Betta fish, as males build bubble nests at the water's surface. If breeding is intended, provide a calm environment with floating plants for nest-building.
Care Tips
✔ Placement: Provide a well-planted tank with floating vegetation and gentle filtration.
✔ Water Stability: Keep water parameters stable and avoid sudden changes.
✔ Feeding: Offer a mix of dry, frozen, and live foods for balanced nutrition.
✔ Tank Mates: Choose peaceful companions to prevent fin-nipping.
✔ Surface Access: Ensure they have open access to the water’s surface for breathing.
Compatibility
Croaking Gouramis are peaceful and do well with other small, non-aggressive fish, including:
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Tetras (Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras)
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Rasboras (Harlequin Rasboras, Chili Rasboras)
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Corydoras Catfish
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Peaceful Gouramis (Honey Gouramis, Sparkling Gouramis)
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Shrimp and snails (Amano Shrimp, Nerite Snails)
Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species such as Tiger Barbs or large cichlids.
Availability
The Croaking Gourami (Trichopsis vittata) is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Contact us for availability and bring home this unique, talking fish for your freshwater aquarium today!
Disclaimer: Due to variations within species and the age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.
