Opaline Gourami

The Opaline Gourami is a color variant of the Blue Gourami featuring a beautiful marbled pattern with shades of blue, green, and pink iridescence. The opaline pattern creates a unique, almost pearlescent appearance that changes as the fish moves under light. These fish have the same care requirements and behavior as other Three Spot Gourami variants, requiring 30+ gallon tanks and appropriate tank mates. They are active, hardy fish that make attractive centerpieces for medium community tanks.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Opaline Gouramis need space and some plant cover.

Essential Setup:

• 30+ gallons minimum
• Moderate planting
• Open swimming space
• Surface access

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-8.0
• Water Hardness: Soft to hard (3-25 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Omnivores accepting most foods:

• Quality flakes or pellets
• Frozen foods
• Vegetables

Appearance

• Base color: Marbled pattern
• Iridescence: Blue, green, pink
• Pattern: Unique to each fish
• Size: 4-6 inches

Behavior & Compatibility

Semi-aggressive:

• Territorial: Defends space
• Size: Can eat small fish
• Active: Needs swimming room

Good Tank Mates:

• Medium tetras
• Barbs
• Corydoras
• Robust fish

Avoid:

• Small fish
• Long-finned fish
• Other gouramis

Sexing

• Males: More colorful, pointed dorsal fin
• Females: Duller, rounded dorsal fin

Breeding

Bubble nest builders:

• Male builds nest at surface
• Condition before spawning
• Male guards eggs and fry

Tips for Success

• Unique marbled pattern
• Each fish looks different
• Same care as Blue Gourami
• Attractive centerpiece fish
• Hardy and adaptable