The Pygmy Gourami — also called the Sparkling Gourami is one of the smallest labyrinth fish kept in aquariums. It’s popular because of its shimmering colors, interesting behavior, and tiny size.
Overview
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Scientific name: Trichopsis pumila
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Adult size: ~1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
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Lifespan: about 4–5 years with good care
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Origin: Southeast Asia — especially Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
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Temperament: peaceful but shy
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Difficulty: beginner to intermediate
Appearance
Despite being tiny, they’re surprisingly flashy:
- iridescent blue-green scales that “sparkle” under light
- red/orange striping
- translucent fins with blue speckles
- large eyes relative to body size
Males are usually more colorful and slightly slimmer than females.
Unique Trait: They “Croak”
Like other members of the genus Trichopsis, pygmy gouramis can produce audible clicking or croaking sounds, especially:
- during territorial displays
- courtship
- mild arguments between males
In a quiet room, aquarists can sometimes hear them outside the tank.
Behavior
They’re:
- calm and slow-moving
- curious once comfortable
- often found hovering among plants near the surface
At first they can be very timid. Dense plants help them feel secure.
Tank Setup
A heavily planted aquarium works best.
Ideal conditions
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Tank size: 10 gallons (38 L)+
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Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
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pH: 6.0–7.5
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Flow: low/gentle
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Lighting: dim to moderate
Floating plants are especially appreciated because they mimic their natural habitat.
Tank Mates
Good companions include:
- tiny rasboras
- ember tetras
- small peaceful shrimp
- pygmy corydoras
