Snakeskin Gourami

Trichopodus pectoralis

Snakeskin Gourami is a peaceful bottom-to-middle swimmer.

PeacefulBottom to middle swimmerBeginner – Intermediate

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Ask about this fish’s care needs, possible companions or a problem you’ve noticed.

Quick facts

Adult size: ≤ 11.8" (≤ 30 cm)
Aquarium size: 40 US gal (150 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming zone: Bottom to middle swimmer
Temperature: 72–86°F (22–30°C)
pH: 5.8–8.5
GH: 2–30 dGH
Diet: Omnivore
Lifespan: up to 6 years

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 6 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 40 US gal (150 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length. Choose an aquarium that meets the listed minimum requirements.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 22–30 °C, pH 5.8–8.5, GH 2–30 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Snakeskin Gourami is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the lower to middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.

Before adding this fish

Plan for an aquarium of 40 US gal (150 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length.
Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
Offer a varied diet suited to this species’ documented feeding habits.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

Batman Betta Betta persephone Same family Similar care level Same temperament Intermediate ≤ 1.4" (≤ 3.5 cm) 72–82°F (22–28°C) Banded Archerfish Toxotes jaculatrix Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Intermediate – Advanced ≤ 11.8" (≤ 30 cm) 77–86°F (25–30°C) Banded Gourami Trichogaster fasciata Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 70–82°F (21–28°C) African Red Eyed Tetra Arnoldichthys spilopterus Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 75–81°F (24–27°C) Black Phantom Tetra Megalamphodus megalopterus Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–82°F (22–28°C) Blue Danio Danio kerri Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.8" (≤ 4.5 cm) 64–77°F (18–25°C)

FAQ

How large does Snakeskin Gourami get?

Snakeskin Gourami reaches ≤ 11.8" (≤ 30 cm). Allow for adult swimming space, filtration, and compatible companions.

What aquarium size does Snakeskin Gourami need?

Use an aquarium of at least 40 US gal (150 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length.

Is Snakeskin Gourami peaceful?

Yes. Snakeskin Gourami is generally peaceful. Choose calm companions that won’t harass it or crowd it out at feeding time.

What temperature is suitable for Snakeskin Gourami?

Keep it between 22 to 30 °C.