Opaline Gourami | The Moonstone Gentleman

Opaline Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus)

With its shimmering silvery-blue body, delicate marbled markings, and graceful, flowing fins, the Opaline Gourami brings an understated elegance to the freshwater aquarium. Its beautiful coloration resembles ripples of pale blue light across polished stone, creating an enchanting display as it moves through the water.

A selectively bred variety of the Three-Spot Gourami, the Opaline Gourami is distinguished by its soft blue coloration and irregular darker markings. Its wild relatives typically display a brownish body with faint vertical bars and two dark spots along each side. Together with the eye, these markings create the appearance of three spots, giving the species its familiar name.

One of the Opaline Gourami’s most fascinating features is its specialized labyrinth organ, which allows it to breathe atmospheric air directly from the water’s surface. Watching one rise gently to take a breath is a charming reminder of the extraordinary adaptations found beneath the water.

Beautiful, curious, and surprisingly expressive, the Opaline Gourami makes a wonderful centerpiece for a thoughtfully arranged tropical aquarium. Although generally hardy, its territorial tendencies require careful consideration when choosing companions.

Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Trichopodus trichopterus
• Common Names: Opaline Gourami, Marbled Gourami, Three-Spot Gourami
• Origin: Captive-bred color variety; the wild species is native to Southeast Asia
• Adult Size: Approximately 5–6 inches
• Minimum Aquarium Size: 30 gallons for a single adult, with larger aquariums preferred for community setups
• Temperature: 75–82°F
• pH: Approximately 6.0–8.0
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Water Type: Freshwater
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial behavior varies by individual
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Care Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Lifespan: Approximately 4–6 years, sometimes longer with excellent care
• Compatibility: Peaceful to moderately robust tropical fish that are not easily intimidated

Aquarium Considerations

Opaline Gouramis appreciate a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas, floating vegetation, and sheltered spaces where they can retreat when desired.

Their natural habitat includes slow-moving waters, making gentle to moderate water movement preferable to strong currents. Floating plants can help create a sense of security, although unobstructed access to the surface is essential for breathing.

Males may become territorial, particularly toward other gouramis or similarly shaped fish. Keeping multiple males together in smaller aquariums can result in persistent aggression.

Avoid pairing them with delicate, timid species or fish with long, flowing fins that may provoke territorial behavior. Small shrimp may also be vulnerable to predation.

Provide a secure aquarium lid with an air gap above the water, allowing access to warm, humid air while preventing accidental escapes.

Feeding

Opaline Gouramis are adaptable omnivores that enjoy a varied diet.

Offer high-quality tropical flakes or pellets supplemented with occasional frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.

They may also graze on soft plant matter and small organisms found throughout the aquarium.

Feed moderate portions once or twice daily, removing uneaten food to maintain clean water conditions.

Live Arrival Guarantee

We take great care in helping every resident of The Sunken Garden reach its new home safely.

Please inspect your Opaline Gourami immediately upon delivery. If your fish arrives deceased, contact us at hello@thelovefern.com within 2 hours of confirmed delivery.

Please include:

• Your order number
• Clear photographs of the affected fish
• Photographs of the shipping bag and packaging
• A brief description of the issue

Live aquatic animals are not eligible for standard returns. All claims are subject to review under our Live Arrival Guarantee.

For questions about your order or caring for your new aquatic resident, contact hello@thelovefern.com.