Chocolate gourami vs Pygmy gourami: can they live together?

Verdict: With caution

  • The Pygmy gourami is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Chocolate gourami is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Chocolate gourami can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • Both are comfortable at 26–28°C (79–82°F).
  • A pH of 6.0 suits both.
  • Minimum tank for the pair: 75 L (20 US gal)

Side by side

Chocolate gouramiPygmy gourami
Adult size7 cm (2.8 in)4 cm (1.6 in)
Minimum tank75 L (20 US gal)40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature26–31°C (79–88°F)25–28°C (77–82°F)
pH4.0–6.06.0–7.0
Hardness0–4 dGH (0–71 ppm)5–19 dGH (89–339 ppm)
TemperamentSemi-aggressivePeaceful
Community tankNot suitableNot suitable
Care levelDifficultEasy
DietOmnivoreOmnivore

Species profiles