19/02/2026
Trichogaster fasciata – Banded Gourami
www.aquasnack.co.uk
Species Overview
Scientific Name: Trichogaster fasciata
Common Names: Banded Gourami, Striped Gourami
Family: Osphronemidae (Gourami family)
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial (especially males)
Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care
The Banded Gourami is a hardy and adaptable labyrinth fish known for its bold striping and confident personality. It is more assertive than some other gourami species, making correct tank planning important.
Appearance
Size: Up to 10–12 cm (4–5 inches)
Shape: Laterally compressed body with elongated dorsal and a**l fins
Coloration:
Base color ranges from olive-brown to bluish
Vertical dark bands across the body
Males develop more vibrant blue or reddish tones, especially during breeding
Distinguishing Features:
Long thread-like pelvic fins (typical of gouramis)
Strong vertical barring pattern
Males are generally more colorful and develop extended fins compared to females.
Natural Distribution
Native to South Asia, including:
India
Bangladesh
Nepal
Myanmar
It is widely distributed across the Ganges and Brahmaputra river basins.
Habitat
In the wild, Trichogaster fasciata inhabits:
Slow-moving rivers
Floodplains
Ponds
Irrigation ca**ls
Rice paddies
It prefers shallow waters rich in vegetation and often survives in low-oxygen environments thanks to its labyrinth organ.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)
Salinity: Freshwater only
Stable conditions are more important than chasing exact numbers.
Aquarium Setup
Minimum Tank Size: 100 liters (25+ gallons)
Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel enhances coloration
Decorations:
Dense planting (live plants preferred)
Floating plants for cover
Driftwood and root structures
Lighting: Moderate; subdued lighting helps reduce stress
Water Flow: Gentle to moderate
Filtration: Efficient but not overly strong current
Provide visual barriers to reduce aggression between males.
Feeding
Natural Diet:
Insects
Small crustaceans
Zooplankton
In Captivity:
High-quality pellets or flakes
Frozen foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp)
Live foods when available
Occasional vegetable matter
A varied diet enhances coloration and overall health.
Breeding
Type: Bubble nest builder
Males build nests among floating plants
Male guards eggs and fry
Spawning triggered by slightly warmer water and abundant feeding
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males: brighter coloration, longer fins
Females: rounder body, especially when gravid
Separate females after spawning if male aggression increases.
Maintenance
Care Level: Moderate
Weekly 25–30% water changes recommended
Sensitive to poor water quality and ammonia spikes
Provide surface access for air breathing
They are hardy but territorial behavior must be managed.
Tank Mates
Compatible:
Medium peaceful barbs
Larger tetras
Rainbowfish
Bottom dwellers like Corydoras (if space allows)
Avoid:
Very small timid fish
Long-finned slow species (may be nipped)
Other male gouramis in small tanks
Best kept singly or one male with multiple females in a sufficiently large tank.
Important Notes
Can become territorial during breeding
May bully weaker tank mates
Requires surface access due to labyrinth organ
Not ideal for small community tanks
Color improves significantly in well-planted aquariums
With proper space and structure, the Banded Gourami becomes a striking centerpiece fish displaying fascinating behavior and bold personality.