Female Dwarf Flame Gourami – 4cm

Trichogaster lalius

The Female Dwarf Flame Gourami is a peaceful freshwater fish that suits planted and community aquariums.

Females are usually softer in colour than males, with more muted silver, grey or pale orange tones. They still have the same attractive body shape and calm behaviour that make Dwarf Gouramis popular aquarium fish.

At approximately 4cm, these fish are still growing and may continue to develop as they mature.

At a Glance

• Approximate size: 4cm
• Adult size: Around 7–9cm
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-peaceful
• Care level: Easy to moderate
• Diet: Omnivore
• Temperature: Around 24–28°C
• pH: Around 6.0–7.5
• Best suited to: Community and planted aquariums
• Sex: Female

Aquarium Care

Female Dwarf Gouramis do best in a calm, well-maintained aquarium.

They prefer gentle water movement and plenty of cover.

Live plants are especially useful because they provide:

• Shelter
• Shaded areas
• Resting places
• A more natural environment

Floating plants can also help make Gouramis feel more secure.

Temperament & Tank Mates

Female Dwarf Gouramis are generally peaceful and are often calmer than males.

Suitable tank mates may include:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras
• Bristlenose Plecos
• Peaceful Rainbowfish
• Other calm community fish

Avoid aggressive species and persistent fin nippers.

Feeding

Dwarf Gouramis are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet.

Suitable foods include:

• Quality tropical flakes
• Small pellets
• Frozen brine shrimp
• Bloodworm
• Daphnia
• Small live foods
• Spirulina-based foods

Feed small amounts once or twice a day.

A varied diet can help support good condition, healthy growth and natural colour.

Female Dwarf Gourami Colour

Female Dwarf Gouramis are usually less colourful than males.

They often display:

• Silver or grey body colour
• Softer orange tones
• Fainter vertical markings
• Less intense fin colour

This is normal and is one of the easiest ways to tell mature males and females apart.

Keeping Female Dwarf Gouramis

Females can often be kept together when the aquarium has enough space and cover.

They may also be kept with a male, but it is important to provide plants and hiding areas so females can move away if the male becomes persistent.

A larger aquarium gives all fish more room to establish their own space.

Planted Aquariums

Dwarf Gouramis are excellent fish for planted tanks.

Good plant choices include:

• Vallisneria
• Anubias
• Java Fern
• Cryptocoryne
• Floating plants
• Stem plants

Leave some open swimming space while keeping planted areas around the sides and back of the aquarium.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Female Dwarf Gouramis grow?

Adults usually reach around 7–9cm.

Are female Dwarf Gouramis peaceful?

Yes. Females are generally peaceful and are often less territorial than males.

Can female Dwarf Gouramis live together?

Yes. Females can often be kept together when the tank is large enough and has plenty of plants and hiding places.

Can a female Dwarf Gourami live with a male?

Yes, but the aquarium should provide enough space and cover so the female can move away if the male becomes territorial or persistent.

What do Dwarf Gouramis eat?

They are omnivores and do well on quality flakes or pellets supported by frozen, live and vegetable-based foods.

Are Dwarf Gouramis good for planted aquariums?

Yes. They are very well suited to planted aquariums and often appreciate floating plants and shaded areas.

Can I buy Female Dwarf Flame Gouramis online in Australia?

Yes. Aquaholics Online stocks Female Dwarf Flame Gouramis when available.