Care guide
Caring for bettas and gouramis
This guide covers Dwarf gourami and the other species that need the same care. Ask the seller about anything particular to Dwarf gourami.
- Adult size
- About 8 cm
- Water temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Smallest tank
- 60 litres
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Care level
- Easy
Bettas and gouramis breathe air from the surface with a special organ, love warm, calm, planted water, and need access to the surface and a gentle filter.
Warm, calm water
Keep them at 24 to 28°C with gentle flow and floating plants. Leave a gap between the water and the lid so they can breathe warm, humid air.
Tankmates
Male bettas fight each other and can nip other long-finned fish. Male gouramis can be territorial too; keep one male per tank unless it's large and well planted.
Health to ask about
Dwarf gouramis commonly carry an untreatable virus (iridovirus). Ask the seller where their fish come from and how they quarantine.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on November 3, 2026.