Giant red tail gourami

Osphronemus laticlavius

A dark body with striking red fin margins.

Adults contrast a blue-grey to dark body with red fin margins; mature males can develop extended fin tips.

Adult length: Up to 50 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 20–30 °C
pH: 6.5–8
Hardness: 5–25 dGH

Natural habitat: Native to inland waters of Malaysia and Indonesia; detailed wild habitat information is limited.

Range: 20–30°C, pH 6.5–8.0, 5–25 dGH, with approximately 24–27°C preferred.

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Appearance and identification

Adult males may show stronger red fins and distinctive heads, darkening in courtship. Keep air and surface access open for this labyrinth fish. Ordinary giant gourami adults are usually grey-brown without the prominent red margins; both need very large adult quarters.

Social behaviour and territory

Monitor large companions for pursuit.

Compatibility limits

Small fish and plants may be eaten. Large adult quarters and efficient filtration are essential.

Space requirements

180 × 60 × 60 cm is an absolute lower limit for one adult; more space is preferred and this is not a routine home-tank size.

Aquarium environment

Plants may be eaten; leave room for adult movement and surfacing.

Diet and feeding

Provide suitable pellets with plenty of plant foods; frozen foods may supplement them.

Sources