The Three Spot Gourami fish is an attractive, distinct species native to Southeast Asia. Not only is it beautiful, but it also has some unique characteristics and behaviors. It is a peaceful, hardy fish that adapt quickly to different conditions.
The Three Spot Gourami has mesmerizing blue, orange, and yellow coloring on its body. Its coloration is further highlighted by its dark spots between the eyes and its dorsal fin, which give the fish its distinctive name.
The Three Spot Gourami's temperament is quite timid and tends to be more reclusive unless threatened. It is more apt to swim away than initiate fights with its tankmates, even if they are similar sizes.
These fish are known to be incredibly hardy and easy to care for, especially in planted aquariums. They can stretch to full maturity lengths of 4 inches and will do best in water temperatures between 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Three Spot Gourami is a labyrinth fish that breathes in the atmospheric air like a human. It can also be seen perched on a leaf or floating on the top of the tank.
These fish are omnivorous and will show different feeding behaviors, such as scavenging the bottom of the tank for food or jumping from the water surface to catch prey.
The Three Spot Gourami is a territorial species, best kept in gender-specific tanks of 1 male and two or more females. Males will make bubble nests for the female to lay her eggs and spend considerable time defending them from harm.
Male Three Spot Gouramis may also display aggressive behaviors such as fin-nipping and chasing other fish during spawning.
Females will lay their eggs in bubbles, leaving them to hatch independently. The parents will move the offspring to a separate tank area to avoid predation.
Three Spot Gouramis can also be bred unusually by mouthbrooding. In this case, the female lays her eggs in the male's mouth, and he will carry them until they hatch.
These fish possess unusual communication methods and can squeak and click noises to indicate they are feeling threatened or stressed.
