Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii)

Fish in the family Helostomatidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Kissing Gourami

Quick facts

Scientific nameHelostoma temminckii
FamilyHelostomatidae
Also known asKisser Fish, Pink Kissing Gourami, Green Kissing Gourami
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size12 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 5-20 dGH

Appearance

Large pinkish or silvery-green gourami with thick fleshy protrusible lips used for grazing and lip-locking contests.

Difficulty and care for the Kissing Gourami

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Thailand, Indonesia (Southeast Asia)

Keeper notes

The 'kissing' is a mouth-wrestling dominance display, not affection. Becomes territorial and pushy with size; needs a large tank and robust tankmates.

Log Kissing Gourami in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Kissing Gourami alongside everything else in your reef.