Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded gourami (Trichogaster fasciata) is a freshwater fish of the family Osphronemidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The banded gourami is a labyrinth fish of the family Osphronemidae from South Asia. The species grows to about 12 cm; courting males are handsomely coloured with blue and orange-red oblique bands, females plainer. It inhabits large rivers, estuaries, ditches, ponds and lakes, usually in quiet, vegetated water. Thanks to a labyrinth organ it can gulp air at the surface and survive in oxygen-poor water. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, larvae, small zooplankton and plant matter. The male builds a foam nest in which the brood is tended. The species is a popular aquarium fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded gourami?
The Banded gourami has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Labyrinth organ for air breathing; males blue-and-orange banded and build a bubble nest.
Where does the Banded gourami live?
The Banded gourami lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia; calm, vegetated rivers, ditches, ponds and lakes.
How big does the Banded gourami get?
The Banded gourami grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Banded gourami dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded gourami is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded gourami edible?
The Banded gourami is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trichogaster
More from the family Osphronemidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded gourami?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded gourami is one of 12,519 species in the app.