Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant gourami (Osphronemus goramy) is a brackish-water fish of the family Osphronemidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The giant gourami is a large labyrinth fish (Osphronemidae) from Southeast Asia. The species can grow to about 70 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body, with a more pointed head in young fish than in old ones. It inhabits swamps, lakes and rivers among vegetation and enters flooded forest. Like all labyrinth fishes it can breathe air with a labyrinth organ and so survive in oxygen-poor water. As an omnivore it eats water plants, algae, fruit, insects and small animals. It is an important culture and food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant gourami?
The Giant gourami has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large labyrinth fish that can breathe air; important farmed and food fish.
Where does the Giant gourami live?
The Giant gourami lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia; swamps, lakes and rivers with vegetation.
How big does the Giant gourami get?
The Giant gourami grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Giant gourami dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant gourami is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Giant gourami edible?
Yes, the Giant gourami is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Osphronemidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant gourami?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant gourami is one of 12,519 species in the app.