Moonlight Gourami

The Moonlight Gourami is a beautiful, peaceful labyrinth fish named for its stunning silvery-white coloration that seems to glow in the aquarium, reminiscent of moonlight reflecting on water. Native to Southeast Asian slow-moving waters, these fish have long, flowing ventral fins that act as sensory organs, giving them an elegant, graceful appearance as they swim. Unlike their more colorful relatives, Moonlight Gouramis offer a subtle, sophisticated beauty that appeals to aquarists seeking something different. They are among the larger gourami species and require more space than dwarf gouramis. Males develop more pointed dorsal and anal fins and may show a slightly golden tint on their throats during breeding. Their peaceful nature and unique appearance make them an excellent centerpiece fish for community aquariums.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Moonlight Gouramis need a spacious, well-planted aquarium with plenty of swimming room. A 30-40 gallon tank is minimum, with larger tanks preferred if keeping multiple specimens or community fish. Provide floating plants or tall vegetation near the surface, as they are labyrinth fish that breathe air and appreciate cover near the top. Use a gentle filter to avoid strong currents.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate, 2-15 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

These omnivores accept a varied diet including flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. They particularly enjoy live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Supplement with vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or algae wafers. Feed once or twice daily with portions they can consume in 2-3 minutes.

Behavior & Compatibility

Moonlight Gouramis are peaceful but can be shy if housed with boisterous tank mates. They should not be kept with aggressive species or fin nippers that may target their long fins. They do best with other peaceful community fish of similar size. Avoid keeping multiple males in small tanks as they may show territorial behavior.

Tips for Success

• Provide floating plants to give them security and reduce lighting from above
• Keep the tank covered as they are labyrinth fish and may gulp air at the surface
• Avoid strong water currents; they prefer calm waters similar to their natural habitat
• Maintain warm, stable water temperatures for optimal health and coloration
• Their long ventral fins are sensitive; avoid sharp decorations that might tear them
• A pair or small group works best; avoid housing with other large gourami species