Samurai gourami Care Guide
Sphaerichthys vaillanti
📊 Datasheet
View More- Conservation StatusVulnerable
- DifficultyModerate
- HardinessResilient
- Liters per Fish20 L
- Maintenance LevelHigh Maintenance
- pH6.0 - 7.5
- Minimum School Size5
- Temperature26.0 - 30.0 °C
Please note: These values are based on the average of various confirmed sources.
❤️ Care
The Samurai Gourami thrives in conditions that closely replicate its natural habitat. In the wild, these fish inhabit slow-moving waters rich in decaying plant matter, which contributes to their need for soft, acidic water in captivity.
- Tank Setup: A tank of at least 80 liters (21 gallons) is recommended for a small group of Samurai Gouramis. The tank should be heavily planted with plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and floating plants to create shaded areas, mimicking their natural swamp environment.
- Water Conditions: Samurai Gouramis require very soft, acidic water with a pH between 4.0 and 6.0 and temperatures ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F). Adding almond leaves or similar botanicals to the tank can help replicate the tannin-rich waters of their natural habitat, lowering the pH and providing antibacterial benefits. These leaves also release beneficial tannins that simulate the slow-moving, dark waters they are accustomed to.
- Diet: Samurai Gouramis can be picky eaters. They prefer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Offering a variety of foods will help ensure they receive proper nutrition, but keep in mind that they may be slow to accept dried or pellet food.
- Tankmates: Given their peaceful nature and need for specific water conditions, it is best to house Samurai Gouramis with other species that thrive in soft, acidic environments, such as other gouramis or small, peaceful tetras. They should not be housed with more aggressive or fast-moving species that may outcompete them for food.