FX.co ★ Six amazing labyrinth fish

Siamese fighting fish

One of the most recognizable aquarium fish is the Siamese fighting fish. It captivates with the richness and variety of its coloration. In aquariums, they can be found in red, yellow, white, black, green, blue, violet, spotted, and even shimmering in all the colors of the rainbow. Male bettas possess magnificent tails. Typically, these fish grow up to 5–6 cm.

Pearl gourami

Another well-known aquarium fish is the pearl gourami. Many aquarists choose them for their friendly temperament and graceful movements. Their body color is delicate pink with “pearls” scattered across it. Pearl gouramis have slightly tall bodies, slightly compressed from the sides, and a pointed head. Their ventral fins are thin and hang in elegant threads. They grow up to 10–12 cm.

Dwarf gourami

In terms of brightness, dwarf gouramis can only be compared to Siamese fighting fish. Their coloration is vivid, striking, and truly magnificent. As with bettas, males are more brightly colored than females. One of the main features of dwarf gouramis is that males can be kept in groups. They somewhat resemble pearl gouramis, having a flattened rectangular body with a pointed head. These fish grow up to 6 cm.

Paradise fish

Paradise fish are considered old-timers of the aquarium world. Most aquarists have bred this species at some point. They are also very hardy and well-suited for beginner aquarists. These fish have an unusual bright coloration: their body and fins combine shades of blue and orange! Paradise fish have a spirited nature, yet they get along well in community tanks with similarly sized species (barbs, tetras, rainbowfish). They grow up to 10–12 cm.

Thick-lipped gourami

The thick-lipped gourami is regarded as hardy and peaceful. Like the paradise fish, it has a long history in aquarium keeping. In appearance, it resembles dwarf and pearl gouramis. This species has a flattened body with a pointed head and thread-like pectoral fins. Thick-lipped gouramis are notable for their neon body coloration, which looks stunning in an aquarium. Thanks to their ease of care, they are a great choice for beginner aquarists. They grow up to 9 cm.

Croaking gourami

The croaking gourami is a labyrinth fish with particularly interesting behavior. It has an elongated body, slightly flattened from the sides, and a slightly pointed head. Its pectoral fins resemble thin threads. Adult fish have bright colors: dark horizontal stripes stand out against a light body, while the fins are speckled with neon sparkles. Despite its name, the croaking gourami is peaceful. From time to time, males settle disputes by making characteristic sounds reminiscent of snapping twigs—this is their “croaking.” This species grows up to 6–7 cm.