25 Best Pearl Gourami Tank Mates

Pearl Gourami, is a popular freshwater fish. It’s known for its pearlescent sheen and peaceful nature. Its typical habitat includes the slow-moving streams and swamps of Southeast Asia. Keep reading to find out about its best tank mates for Pearl Gourami!

by Fabian

Updated: July 25, 2023 / 16 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras, with their radiant hues, are great tank mates for Pearl Gouramis. They are peaceful and prefer to swim in schools, providing a captivating sight to behold. Given their small size, they don’t pose any threat to your Gouramis.

• Compatibility: 5/5 – Neon Tetras blend seamlessly in a community tank environment.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) – They need ample area for schooling.
• Temperature Range: 70-81°F (21-27°C) – Close to Gourami’s preferred temperature.
• Care Level: Easy – Perfect for novice and experienced aquarists alike.
• Temperament: Peaceful – No threat of aggression in the tank.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – They eat both plant-based and protein-rich foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) – Their small size is a perfect match for the larger Gourami.

Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin Rasboras portray dynamic compatibility with Pearl Gourami fish. Fascinatingly, they come with easy care level, showcasing a calm and peaceful temperament. The Rasboras are omnivores and their diet usually consists of flakes, pellets, and small pieces of vegetables.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallon (37.85 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Their bright colors make them stand out in the tank, but they don’t intimidate other fish, making them pleasant tank mates for your Pearl Gouramis. Harlequin Rasboras will go a long way to add some much-needed vibrant colors and movement to your aquatic environment.

Cardinal Tetras

Cardinal Tetras could be an excellent choice as a tank mate for your Pearl Gourami, with their vivid blue and red colors providing a delightful contrast.

• Compatibility: 4/5 – Cardinal Tetras are peaceful fish, which makes them ideal companions for Pearl Gouramis.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) – These swimming beauties need enough space to achieve their full potential.
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C) – Cardinal Tetras thrive in warmer waters.
• Care Level: Moderate – They’re not incredibly delicate, but require some care.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They provide a calming presence in the tank.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Feeding them varied diet results in better coloration and health.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 centimeters) – They remain small and unimposing in size.

Respect their needs, and Cardinal Tetras can provide an aesthetically pleasing contrast to your Pearl Gouramis.

Platy Fish

Platy Fish are terrific tank mates for Pearl Gouramis. They are peaceful, playful, vibrant fish that make a colorful addition to any aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) and above
• Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – they enjoy flakes, pellets, live, and frozen foods
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.3 cm)

Their tolerance of a wide range of temperatures and diet flexibility make them an ideal companion. Platy Fish are also less demanding on the care front, making them suitable for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike. With their patient, peaceful demeanor, they harmonize well with Pearl Gouramis.

Mollies

Mollies are lively tank mates compatible with your Pearl Gourami (Compatibility: 5/5). They do well in a moderately sized aquarium – a minimum of 20-gallon (75 liters) tank is suggested.

Mollies prefer warm waters in the range of 70-82°F (21-28°C). Their care level is easy, making them suitable for beginners as well. They are generally peaceful, adopting a live-and-let-live attitude.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L)
• Temperature Range: 70-82°F (21-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Mollies are omnivores, feeding on both plant matter and small crustaceans.
• Adult Size: They can grow up to 5 inches long.

Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are a stellar addition to your Pearl Gourami tank. They’re peaceful and hardy, requiring little maintenance in a well-kept tank. Zebra Danios love to swim in small schools, which adds dynamic movement to your tank’s ecosystem.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gal (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 64-75°F (18-24°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Will eat flake or granulated food along with small live or frozen foods. Feed two times a day.
• Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm)

Remember, despite their durability, Zebra Danios also require clean water and adequate food, so regular tank cleaning and feeding appropriate portions should be observed.

Guppies

Guppies, known for their vibrant colors and fan-like tails, make a fabulous choice as Pearl Gourami tank mates. Reflecting peace by nature, they cohabit well without causing any trouble.

Here is a quick look at Guppy’s living conditions:

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons (37.8 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy, especially well suited for beginners
• Temperament: Peaceful, fit for community tanks
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – enjoy both plant-based food and protein
• Adult Size: Around 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

While they’re fairly easy to care for, remember to not overcrowd the tank. With a balanced population, Guppies and Pearl Gouramis will thrive together peacefully.

Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish are a fantastic choice for a community tank and one of the best fits for your Pearl Gourami tank mate.

• Compatibility: 5/5. These peaceful fishes generally avoid conflict, coexisting perfectly with Pearl Gouramis.
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters), ensuring plenty of space for everyone.
• Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-25°C), which matches well with Pearl Gouramis’ tropical preferences.
• Care Level: Easy. They are hardy fish that can tolerate a range of conditions.
• Temperament: Very peaceful. They like to keep to themselves, which avoids potential territorial disputes.
• Diet & Feeding: They are omnivorous bottom feeders. A diet of sinking pellets or flakes, supplemented with occasional fresh veggies or meaty food, will keep them happy.
• Adult Size: 2.5 in (6.35 cm) in length. Their small size makes them ideal tank mates for Gouramis.

Bristlenose Plecos

Bristlenose Plecos are an excellent addition to a Pearl Gourami tank. These two species coexist harmoniously, thanks to their delightful calm natures.

• Compatibility: 5/5 – they are highly compatible with Pearl Gouramis.
• Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L) minimum – they require a spacious environment to thrive.
• Temperature Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C).
• Care Level: Easy – making them suitable even for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful – they usually reside at the bottom of the tank, allowing Pearl Gouramis to roam freely.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – they enjoy a varied diet of algae wafers, vegetables and high-quality pellets.
• Adult Size: 3-5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm).

Swordtails

Swordtails are a popular choice for Pearl Gourami tank mates. They are typically peaceful fish, making them an excellent addition to your tank. With their striking coloration and long, sword-like tails, they bring a unique flair to any aquarium.

In terms of care, they need a minimum 20-gallon tank with a temperature range of 75-82°F, making them compatible with Pearl Gouramis.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Min 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, will eat most foods
• Adult Size: 5 inches (13 cm)

Swordtails have an omnivorous diet, so feeding them won’t be an issue. Watch out for their size though, as they grow up to 5 inches. They require an intermediate level of care.

Black Skirt Tetras

The Black Skirt Tetras are striking grayscale swimmers that make a stunning addition to any Pearl Gourami aquarium. They’re peaceful fish, with a higher compatibility rating than most, perfectly suited for sharing a tank with Pearl Gouramis. 

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 15-20 gallons (56-75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, readily accept a wide variety of diet.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Being an omnivore, Black Skirt Tetras have versatile dietary patterns. Also, they’re easy to care for, making the task of managing the tank less of a hassle. Their temperature requirements match those of the Pearl Gouramis, allowing for a comfortable coexistence.

Kuhli Loach

Kuhli Loaches are fascinating and unusual tank mates for Pearl Gouramis. They are peaceful, nocturnal, and don’t compete for food.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-86 F (23-30 C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, readily takes most foods
• Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)

Kuhli Loaches tend to be bottom dwellers, so they will not interfere with the mid to top dwelling Gouramis. Due to their nocturnal lifestyle, they often hide during the day in the decor or substrate.

They enjoy worms, crustaceans, insects, and plant matter, which often complements neatly the diet of the Gourami. Hence, these long, eel-like fish can be an excellent choice for your Pearl Gourami tank.

Bolivian Rams

Bolivian Rams are an excellent choice to share your tank with Pearl Gouramis. These peaceful and attractive fish are known for their bright colors and distinctive patterns.

Here are a few quick facts about Bolivian Rams:

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 26 degrees Celsius)
• Care Level: Moderate, requires a little experience
• Temperament: Peaceful, does well in community tanks
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed them flakes, pellets, and occasional fresh food
• Adult Size: Can grow up to 3.5 inches (9 cm)

Remember to provide plenty of hiding spots in the tank for Bolivian Rams to feel secure. These fish can sometimes be shy but they get along well with Pearl Gouramis.

Otocinclus Catfish

The Otocinclus Catfish, also known as the “Dwarf Suckermouth” or “Oto Cat,” is a fantastic choice for your Pearl Gourami.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (37.85 liter) and larger
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Herbalivore; enjoys algae and should be given vegetable supplements
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5.08 cm)

These little algae eaters thrive in a well-planted aquarium with enough algae to eat. They are peaceful by nature and coexist well with Pearl Gouramis. However, ensure you feed them enough as they could starve if there’s insufficient algae in the tank. And guess what? They are available in many local fish stores.

Ember Tetras

Ember Tetras shine in a Pearl Gourami’s tank with their bright and beautiful orange tones. These small fish offer a contrasting pop of color that beautifully contrasts with Pearl Gouramis. Apart from their visual appeal, the peaceful nature of Ember Tetras makes them perfect for cohabitation.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (about 38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-84°F (23-29°C)
• Care Level: Easy, making them great for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They prefer to be in schools of 6 or more.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They enjoy a diet of brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, as well as high-quality flake food.
• Adult Size: 0.8 inches (about 2 cm), which means they won’t compete with Pearl Gouramis for space.

Endler’s Livebearers

Endler’s Livebearers make colorful tank mates for Pearl Gouramis. These small, vibrant fish have compelling personality traits.

• Compatibility: 4/5 (They are generally peaceful but can sometimes show territorial behavior.)
• Tank Size: 20 gal/75 liters (These are small fish but appreciate some swimming space.)
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F/24-27°C (Endler’s Livebearers prefer warmer water conditions.)
• Care Level: Easy (They are hardy fish if provided with a well-maintained environment.)
• Temperament: Peaceful (They are gregarious and enjoy interacting with their tank mates.)
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous (They eat both plant-based and protein-rich food.)
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches/4 cm (They are small in size but are active swimmers.)

Remember, their vibrant colors can add to the beauty of your tank and entertain your Pearl Gouramis.

Cherry Barbs

Cherry barbs, with their vibrant red hue, make an attractive addition to your Pearl Gourami tank. Known for their relatively calm nature, they can add a lovely splash of color while providing good companionship to your beloved Gourami.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-79 °F (22-26 °C)
• Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet that includes both plant-based and meaty foods. Feeding should ideally happen twice a day, to maintain their vibrant color and general health.
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

These fine beauties are known to relish heavily planted tanks, with ample hiding spots – reflecting their natural habitat. But be sure to keep their water quality high, and remember – good tank mates like Cherry Barbs are key to your Gourami’s overall happiness!

Rummy Nose Tetras

Rummy Nose Tetras are ideal tank mates for Pearl Gouramis. They are calmly swimming species who get along well with others. As a schooling fish, they should be kept in groups of 6 or more. A mixture of tetras and Pearl Gouramis will result in a vibrant, pleasant to-gaze upon the community tank.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 72-77°F (22-25°C)
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They eat commercial flakes, granules, live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods.
• Adult Size: 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm)

Siamese Algae Eaters

These are commonly chosen as Pearl Gourami tank mates due to their peaceful nature and their diet, which consists largely of algae. With a medium compatibility rate of 3/5, they blend quietly into the tank environment.

• Compatibility: 3/5
• Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L)
• Temperature Range: 75 – 79 F (24 – 26 C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, feeds mainly on algae. Supplement with high-quality flake or pellet food.
• Adult Size: 6 in (15 cm)

In addition to eating algae, these fish are also curious, keeping tank companions engaged. Ensure that the tank is sizeable and has hiding places as they enjoy having a space of their own.

Dwarf Gouramis

Dwarf Gouramis are an excellent choice as a tank mate for Pearl Gouramis. With a calm and peaceful temperament, they can co-exist without any problems. They are also highly attractive, enhancing aquarium aesthetics with their vivid colors.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75.7 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Moderate. Ideal for hobbyists with some level of experience.
• Temperament: Peaceful. Perfect for community tanks.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. You can feed them with flakes, frozen, dried, and live foods.
• Adult Size: 3.5 inches (9 cm). Although small, they need enough swim space and hiding spots to feel secure.

By choosing Dwarf Gouramis, you mix beauty and compatibility in your Pearl Gourami tank.

Clown Loaches

Clown loaches are among the most popular freshwater fish and their striking coloration makes them an attractive addition to a pearl gourami’s dwelling. They’re peaceful by nature and love to hide and play, making them an entertaining sight.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5. They enjoy company and can tolerate pearl gouramis.
• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gal (283 liters). Provides enough room for them to swim and explore.
• Temperature Range: 75-85°F (24-30°C). Like gouramis, they prefer warm waters.
• Care Level: Medium. They need good water conditions and a roomy tank.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They get along with others well.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores. They enjoy a varied diet from flakes to live food.
• Adult Size: Up to 12 in (30 cm). They’re a larger species but don’t feel threatened by gouramis.

Angelfish

Angelfish, with their dramatic fin displays and striking coloring, are undeniably gorgeous. However, it’s their peaceful temperament that earns them a place in this list. Angelfish are generally calm and can coexist well with the Pearl Gourami under the right conditions.

• Compatibility: 3 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful, but can be territorial
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; live, frozen, or flake food
• Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

Angelfish prefer movement in their environment, plants or decorations for hiding, and ample swimming space. Schedule regular tank cleanings and water checks to promote their health in your shared space.

Hillstream Loach

Hillstream Loach is another peace-loving fish that pairs well with Pearl Gouramis. They not only have a fascinating appearance but also a peaceful nature. Their unique trait of being algae eaters is beneficial for maintaining a clean and healthy tank. But remember to provide hiding spaces as they enjoy resting behind rocks.

• Compatibility: 5 out of 5
• Tank Size: 30 gal (114 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68 to 78 °F (20 to 26 °C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (prefer algae)
• Adult Size: 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm)

Ensure the bottom of your tank has a strong water flow that mimics its natural habitat.

Ghost Catfish

The Ghost Catfish, also known as the glass catfish, is a well-known freshwater species that often catches people’s attention due to its translucent body. These unusual creatures make for some stunning additions to your Pearl Gourami tank community.

• Compatibility: 3/5
• Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys live, frozen, and flake foods.
• Adult Size: 3 inches (7.6 cm)

Similar to the Pearl Gourami, Ghost Catfish are quite peaceful by nature. They prefer a densely planted tank with a free-swimming space and do not pose any threat to their tank mates. However, Ghost Catfish can be quite shy and can suffer from stress in a busy tank, so ensure your tank settings are suitable.

Rosy Barbs

Rosy Barbs are colorful and active fish that can add life to your Pearl Gourami tank. They have the ability to adapt to a variety of water conditions, and they are also known to be peaceful, making them an excellent choice for your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 30 gal (113 liter)
• Temperature Range: 64-72°F (18-22°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful but active
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; provide a range of food including flakes, small granules, and occasional freeze-dried foods.
• Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)

Proper care for these stunning fish involves providing them with ample swimming space and a diverse diet to ensure their vibrant color remains intact.

Conclusion

Pearl Gouramis are social and friendly fish that enjoy the company of a variety of tank mates. It’s key to remember to always choose peaceful and similarly sized fish that will make your Gourami feel comfortable and stress-free. We hope we’ve made your choice easier, and don’t forget to leave a comment letting us know which of these 25 tank mates you’ve chosen for your Pearl Gourami!