Opal Eye Gourami

The Opal Eye Gourami, a unique color variation of the Three-Spot Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus), is a stunning freshwater fish known for its opalescent, silvery-blue body and peaceful nature. Its captivating, iridescent color and gentle demeanor make it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts. This gourami species typically grows up to 5–6 inches, displaying a calm swimming style and an inquisitive personality. The Opal Eye Gourami is a hardy fish, suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists, and it thrives in a well-maintained community tank where it can add elegance and vibrancy.

Opal Eye Gourami Care Guide
Opal Eye Gouramis are resilient but do best in a stable environment with a spacious tank. A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for one Opal Eye Gourami, and larger tanks are ideal if housing multiple fish or adding tank mates. They prefer a temperature range of 74°F to 82°F and a pH between 6.5 and 8.0. This species adapts well to various water conditions but thrives in planted aquariums with plenty of vegetation for cover, such as java fern, anubias, and floating plants. Soft to moderate lighting is ideal, as Opal Eye Gouramis are naturally found in shaded, slow-moving waters.

Tank Setup for Opal Eye Gourami
Opal Eye Gouramis enjoy a tank environment that mimics their natural habitat, so plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks are recommended to create hiding spots and add structure. They also prefer calm water flow, so a gentle filtration system is ideal. As labyrinth fish, they have a specialized organ that allows them to breathe from the surface, so it’s essential to leave space at the top of the tank and secure the lid to prevent any jumping.

Diet and Feeding
Omnivorous by nature, the Opal Eye Gourami enjoys a varied diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, as well as occasional treats of live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Offering a mix of plant-based and protein-rich foods helps maintain their vibrant coloration and health. Feed them twice daily, with portions small enough to be consumed within a few minutes, to keep water quality stable.

Compatible Tank Mates for Opal Eye Gourami
Opal Eye Gouramis are generally peaceful and do well with other calm fish. Ideal tank mates include peaceful species such as rasboras, tetras, Corydoras catfish, and smaller loaches. While they are calm, avoid overly aggressive or fin-nipping fish that may stress or harm them, as well as smaller fish that might be intimidated by the Opal Eye Gourami’s larger size. They can coexist with other gouramis in spacious tanks but may show mild territorial behavior, especially during breeding periods.

Lifespan and Health
With proper care, Opal Eye Gouramis can live up to 5–7 years. Maintaining a clean tank with regular water changes of around 25% weekly, along with stable water parameters, is crucial for their health. These gouramis are hardy and generally disease-resistant but may develop common freshwater ailments if water quality is poor or if they experience stress. Observing them for signs of stress or illness and providing a balanced diet and stable environment will help keep them healthy and vibrant.

The Opal Eye Gourami is a beautiful and tranquil addition to community aquariums, bringing grace and a splash of shimmering color. With its peaceful temperament, resilience, and manageable size, this gourami is a wonderful choice for aquarists looking to add elegance and interest to their freshwater tank.