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Honey Gourami

Honey Gourami

Origin

South Asia

Habitat Size

50-150 Liters

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

24º-27ºC

Cost in India

₹80 - ₹150

Size

2 - 6 inches (Small)

Diet

Omnivore

Orange honey gourami fish with blue accents swims among green aquatic plants in an aquarium
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 10 Nov 2025

The Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna) is a calm and beautiful freshwater fish, well known for its vibrancy and quiet nature. In their smooth shiny golden honey-orange colour, calm nature, and smooth swimming movement, Honey Gouramis add a gold-like glow of sophistication to the aquarium.

They are a top pick for beginner aquarists thanks to their hardiness, small size, and ease of care. Whether you’re setting up your first aquarium or looking to add a peaceful species to your community tank, Honey Gouramis are a wonderful choice.

Origin of the Honey Gourami

Honey Gouramis inhabit Bangladesh and India's sluggish rivers and lakes, particularly where thick cover and still waters are found. They would similarly enjoy that in their own aquarium — shallow, warm water with plenty of hiding places afforded by free-floating plants.

In aquaria, they prefer almost the same sort of environment — live plants, soft filtering, and tranquil tankmates.

Temperament of the Honey Gourami

Honey Gouramis are peaceful, shy, and friendly fish. They share the docile temperament and virtually never display aggression even on days when they should be fed. The males can get slightly territorial while breeding, but this is not an issue if there is enough space in the tank and ample plants.

They do well in pairs or in small groups. 1 male to 2–3 females is the ratio that will ensure harmony and reduce stress among them.

Honey Gourami Compatibility with Other Fish

Honey Gouramis make excellent community fish and can be kept with almost all other non-aggressive fish such as:

  1. Neon Tetras
  2. Harlequin Rasboras
  3. Corydoras Catfish
  4. Mollies and Platies
  5. Zebra Danios

Avoid nippy fish such as barbs or large cichlids that may nip at their fins or bully them.

Price Range of the Honey Gourami

Honey Gouramis are not expensive and are easily available at any fish store. They cost around ₹150–₹400 ($2–$5) depending upon the intensity of coloration, size, and condition.

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Habitat Requirements of the Honey Gourami

Initial Setup Cost

₹4,000 - ₹12,000

Water Temperature

24º -27ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6 - 7.5

Tank Setup

  1. Tank Type: Freshwater
  2. Minimum Tank Capacity: 15–20 gallons
  3. Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
  4. Decor: Driftwood, live plants, and floating plants to provide shade
  5. Lighting: Low to moderate, to match their natural environment

Water Conditions

  1. Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
  2. pH Level: 6.0–7.5
  3. Water Hardness: 4–15 dGH

Environmental Requirements

Honey Gouramis will do well in serene, well-kept water with a gentle current. Keep water quality up with a sponge or low-flow filter rather than stressing them out.

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Nutritional Guide of the Honey Gourami

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹80 - ₹ 150

Honey Gouramis are omnivorous and they like varied plant diets and protein foods.

The recommended diet is:

  1. Good flakes or micro pellets
  2. Frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia
  3. Blanched vegetables such as spinach or zucchini

Feeding Tips:

Feed them little amounts twice a day, and food must never go to waste. Variety in diet keeps them colored and healthier.

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Care & Health of the Honey Gourami

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Fungus

Bacterial infections

Parasites

Velvet

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Dull coloring

Frequent hiding

Swimming abnormally

General Issues of the Honey Gourami

Ich (White Spot Disease)

A common parasitic sickness which generates small white spots on body and fins.

  1. Symptoms: Scratching on tank surfaces, white spots on observation
  2. Cure: Gradually raise water temperature and administer anti-ich medicine

Fin Rot

Typically caused by poor water conditions or fin nipping by agressive tankmates.

  1. Symptoms: Dyeing or torn fins
  2. Cure: Improved water quality and antibacterial medication administered

Fungal Infections

Form due to poor tank cleanliness or injury.

  1. Symptoms: Cottony white growth on fins or body
  2. Cure: Quarantine affected fish and treat with antifungals

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

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Happy Pet Team

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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

How big do Honey Gouramis become?

They are on average 2 inches (5 cm) long.

How long do they live?

They live 4–6 years if well cared for.

Are Honey Gouramis suitable to be kept alone?

They can, but are happiest in pairs or a group of about 3.

Do they require a filter?

Yes, a low-flow filter is ideal as they detest heavy currents.

Are they easy to breed?

Yes, with proper diet, clean water, and floating plants, they can easily build bubble nests and breed.