Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii)
Fish in the family Helostomatidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
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.