What size tank does a pearl gourami need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Trichopodus leerii.
How many pearl gouramis in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if pearl gouramis are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many pearl gouramis |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | 1 |
| 40 gallon breeder | up to 2 |
| 55 gallon | up to 3 |
| 75 gallon | up to 4 |
| 125 gallon | up to 8 |
Check pearl gouramis against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Its long fins are a target. Avoid fin-nippers such as tiger barbs and serpae tetras.
Tank mates for pearl gouramis
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
- Molly
- Dwarf neon rainbowfish
- Rummy-nose tetra
- Lemon tetra
- Sterba's corydoras
- Clown pleco
- Kuhli loach
- Swordtail
Poor matches
- Betta: Betta often attacks other fish with long, flowing fins, such as pearl gourami.
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Tiger barb: Tiger barb nips fins and pearl gourami has long fins. Avoid this pair.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as pearl gourami.
Questions and answers
What size tank does a pearl gourami need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many pearl gouramis should be kept together?
One is fine. A pearl gourami does not need company, though a large enough tank can hold more than one.
Can pearl gouramis live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Pearl gourami needs at least 30 gallons (114 liters).
What temperature do pearl gouramis need?
75–82 °F (24–28 °C), with a pH of 6–8. In most homes that means a heater.
Can pearl gouramis live with a betta?
It is not a good match. Betta often attacks other fish with long, flowing fins, such as pearl gourami.
More fish
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.