Kissing Gourami Care Guide
The Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii) is a unique and fascinating freshwater fish popular among UK aquarists. Known for its distinctive "kissing" behaviour and unusual lip structure, it is an intelligent and active species that can become a real centrepiece in larger aquariums.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Kissing Gourami care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Kissing Gouramis
Kissing gouramis are large labyrinth fish native to Southeast Asia. Their famous "kissing" behaviour is not actually affectionate but a form of territorial sparring or social interaction between fish.
Available in both green and pink colour forms, they are long-lived fish that can grow surprisingly large.
Helostoma temminckii
20-30 cm
Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and surrounding regions
250L (65gal)
10-15 years
Semi-aggressive, active
24-28°C
Omnivore (algae, vegetables, pellets, frozen foods)
6.0-8.0
£8-£25 per fish
How Many Kissing Gouramis Should You Keep?
Kissing gouramis can be kept singly, as pairs, or in groups in very large aquariums.
- Single specimens often make excellent centrepiece fish
- Groups require substantial space to reduce aggression
- Larger tanks help establish territories and reduce conflict
Keeping multiple adults in undersized tanks can lead to:
- Territorial disputes
- Stress and chasing
- Competition for food and space
Their behaviour is often more assertive than many smaller gourami species.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Kissing Gouramis
Providing the right environment is essential due to their size and activity levels.
- Tank Setup: Large aquarium with open swimming areas
- Substrate: Sand or gravel substrate
- Plants & Decor: Robust plants, driftwood, rocks, and open spaces
- Water Conditions: Stable freshwater with good oxygenation
- Filtration & Flow: Strong filtration with moderate water movement
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
As labyrinth fish, they require regular access to the water surface.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Kissing gouramis can work well in larger community aquariums with suitable tankmates.
- Good Tankmates: severums, silver dollars, rainbowfish, larger barbs, peaceful catfish, and larger gouramis
- Avoid: very small fish, slow-moving species, and highly aggressive cichlids
As they mature, some individuals become increasingly territorial.
Are Kissing Gouramis Easy to Care For?
Kissing gouramis are moderately easy to care for and suitable for aquarists with some experience.
They require:
- Large aquariums
- Strong filtration
- A varied diet
- Appropriate tankmates
They are hardy but often underestimated due to their eventual size.
Kissing Gourami Price in the UK
In the UK, kissing gouramis typically cost between £8-£25 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Size and age
- Colour variety
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
Larger specimens may command higher prices.
Where to Buy Kissing Gouramis in the UK
Kissing gouramis are available from many UK aquarium shops and occasionally from hobbyist keepers.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to inspect health and body condition
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Kissing Gouramis?
Yes - kissing gouramis are commonly rehomed once they approach adult size.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Helps connect suitable large-tank keepers
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Kissing Gouramis
Kissing gouramis are omnivorous with a strong preference for plant matter.
Key Tips
- Feed quality pellets or flakes
- Supplement with algae wafers and vegetable-based foods
- Offer blanched spinach, peas, and courgette
- Provide occasional frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
A varied diet supports healthy growth and coloration.
Common Problems with Kissing Gouramis
Aggression between adults, often caused by:
- Small tank sizes
- Territorial disputes
- Overcrowding
Stunted growth, linked to:
- Inadequate tank size
- Poor water quality
Plant damage, caused by:
- Natural grazing behaviour
- Insufficient vegetable matter in the diet
Why Kissing Gouramis Are So Popular
- Unique "kissing" behaviour
- Large and impressive appearance
- Interactive and intelligent personality
- Hardy and adaptable
- Excellent centrepiece fish for large aquariums
When kept correctly, kissing gouramis become fascinating long-term pets that display unusual behaviour and plenty of character.
Frequently Asked Questions
The behaviour is usually a form of territorial sparring rather than affection.
They commonly reach 20-30 cm in captivity.
They are generally semi-aggressive and can become territorial as they mature.
At least 250 litres, with larger aquariums preferred for multiple fish.
Looking to Buy or Sell Kissing Gouramis Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're looking for a unique centrepiece fish or rehoming a large adult specimen, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.