Honey Gourami

Trichogaster chuna

Also sold as Sunset honey gourami · Red honey gourami · Gold honey gourami

Synonyms Colisa chuna

Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna) is a peaceful freshwater fish that reaches about 5 cm (2 in) and swims near the surface. It wants 72–82°F (22–28°C) and pH 6–7.5, can be kept singly, and needs a tank of at least 40 L (11 gal).

Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna)

At a glance

TypeFish
Adult size5 cm (2 in)
Minimum tank40 L (11 gal)
Group sizeCan be kept singly
Temperature72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH6–7.5
TemperamentPeaceful
GH4–15
Lifespan4–8 years
Eats shrimpShrimplets only

Before it goes in

  • Honey Gourami needs at least 40 L (11 gal). The smallest size in this library that clears that is the 15 Gallon.
  • Adult shrimp are safe; shrimplets will be eaten, so a shrimp colony will not grow in the same tank.
  • It holds at 72–82°F (22–28°C). That shares a window with Betta and Cherry Shrimp.
  • It can go wrong with Betta — it works in some tanks and not in others, so it is not a combination to buy blind.
  • It jumps. An open-top tank needs a lid or a low water line.

What tank size does it need?

At least 40 L (11 gal). The smallest size here that clears it is the 15 Gallon.

Will it eat shrimp?

Adults are safe, shrimplets are not. You can keep shrimp with it; you just will not get a growing colony.

What water does it want?

72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6–7.5, GH 4–15.

How long does it live?

4–8 years in a tank that suits it. That is how long you are signing up for.

Good tank mates

Often compared with

Honey GouramiDwarf GouramiThick-lipped Gourami
Adult size5 cm8 cm10 cm
Min tank40 L40 L67 L
Group1+1+1+
Temperature72–82°F (22–28°C)75–82°F (24–28°C)72–81°F (22–27°C)
Eats shrimpShrimplets onlyYes—

More livestock

Plan a tank with Honey Gourami →

Sources (5) · checked Sep 2026