Moonlight Gourami

The Moonlight Gourami is an elegant freshwater fish admired for its shimmering silver body and peaceful temperament. Named for its soft iridescent sheen that resembles moonlight, this graceful gourami makes a beautiful centrepiece in planted community aquariums. Mature males develop striking orange to red pelvic fins and a more pointed dorsal fin, adding further visual appeal. Moonlight Gouramis are hardy and relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both intermediate and experienced aquarists. They appreciate calm, well-planted aquariums with plenty of swimming space and floating plants, where they can display their natural behaviours. Physical Characteristics Adult Size: Approximately 12–15cm Body Shape: Laterally compressed body with long thread-like pelvic fins Colouration: Silvery body with a soft iridescent sheen and pale green highlights. Mature males develop orange to red pelvic fins. Sexual Dimorphism: Males have a longer, more pointed dorsal fin and brighter orange to red pelvic fins, while females have a shorter, rounded dorsal fin Lifespan: Approximately 4–6 years with proper care Behaviour & Temperament Temperament: Peaceful Swimming Level: Middle to upper levels Social Behaviour: Generally peaceful and suitable for community aquariums. Can be kept singly, as pairs, or in groups in larger aquariums. Recommended Group Size: Single fish, pairs, or small groups in spacious aquariums Aquarium Requirements Minimum Tank Size: 150 litres recommended Water Temperature: 24–30°C pH Range: 6.0–7.5 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water Water Flow: Gentle water movement preferred Substrate: Fine gravel or sand Aquascape: Heavily planted aquarium with driftwood, floating plants, and open swimming areas Lighting: Low to moderate lighting Feeding: Moonlight Gouramis are omnivores that thrive on a varied diet. Suitable Foods: High-quality tropical flakes, floating pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and occasional vegetable-based foods Frequency: Offer 1–2 meals daily in amounts they can consume within a few minutes. Compatibility Suitable Tank Mates: Tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, peaceful rainbowfish, peaceful loaches, and other non-aggressive community fish Avoid Housing With: Aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, or highly territorial fish Breeding Spawning Type: Bubble nest builder Difficulty: Moderate Notes: Males construct bubble nests amongst floating plants and guard the eggs until they hatch. A separate breeding aquarium is recommended for successful spawning. Special Considerations Provide access to the water surface, as Moonlight Gouramis breathe atmospheric air using their labyrinth organ. Floating plants help these fish feel secure and encourage natural behaviour. Avoid strong water currents, which can stress this slow-swimming species. Maintain excellent water quality through regular maintenance and water changes. Product Photo is for reference only. Exact fish may vary in size and colour.