Croaking gourami vs sparkling gourami
Both croak, both are Trichopsis, and shops use 'croaking gourami' for either. Which one fits a small planted tank?
Short answer
The sparkling gourami, at around 3 cm. The croaking gourami reaches roughly twice that and holds territory in a way the smaller species does not, so a keeper who buys one expecting a nano fish has bought something that needs about double the tank.
Side by side
| Dimension | Croaking gourami | Sparkling gourami | Favours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 5–7 cm | 3–4 cm | Sparkling gourami |
| Minimum tank length | 60 cm | 45 cm | Sparkling gourami |
| Territoriality | Mild, and real | Minimal | — |
| Audible croak | Yes | Yes | Neither |
| Surface breathing | Yes | Yes | Neither |
| Suits a small planted tank | Only a long one | Yes | Sparkling gourami |
Which to choose
Croaking gourami
Choose the croaking gourami if you have 60 cm or more and want a fish with a bit of presence at the surface.
Sparkling gourami
Choose the sparkling gourami for a small planted tank, or where the tankmates are very small.
One caveat
Both are labyrinth fish and both need a still surface with an air gap above the water. A tightly sealed lid or a chilled draught across the surface causes real harm regardless of which one you bought.