Origins and Classification
Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius (Red Flame variety)
Family: Osphronemidae
The Red Flame Dwarf Gourami is a vibrant freshwater fish admired for its fiery red and orange coloration. This selectively bred color morph of the dwarf gourami is popular worldwide because it stays small, peaceful, and easy to care for. With its bright tones and gentle nature, the Red Flame Dwarf Gourami makes an excellent addition to community aquariums.
🎨 Appearance
The Red Flame Dwarf Gourami displays a stunning blend of deep red, orange, and subtle metallic highlights. Males show the brightest colors, especially during breeding or when placed in a planted tank. Their rounded body, pointed dorsal fin, and graceful movement make them one of the most eye-catching dwarf gourami varieties.
Color & Features:
- Intense red-orange body
- Light vertical striping may appear depending on strain
- Long ventral “feelers” used for navigation
- Males are more vibrant; females are softer in color
Size:
- Average: 2.5–3 inches
- Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care
🏡 Tank Requirements
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a single fish; 20 gallons for a peaceful community setup.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
- Low water flow preferred
Environment Setup
To help your Red Flame Dwarf Gourami feel safe and display its best colors, provide:
- Live plants (especially floating plants)
- Hiding spots using driftwood or caves
- Calm tank mates
- Gentle filtration
They thrive in planted tanks where they can explore slowly and feel secure.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivore
Food Options:
- High-quality flakes or micro-pellets
- Frozen or live treats: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
- Vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes
Feed small amounts twice daily to maintain health and vibrant color.
🤝 Behavior and Compatibility
The Red Flame Dwarf Gourami is peaceful, curious, and slow-moving. It does well in community aquariums as long as tank mates are gentle.
Ideal Tank Mates:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras
- Small peaceful barbs
- Snails and shrimp (larger species)
Avoid:
- Fin-nippers
- Aggressive or fast fish
- Multiple male gouramis in small tanks
💡 Care Notes
Provide clean, warm water and stable conditions to keep your fish healthy. Weekly partial water changes will help prevent stress and ensure bright coloration. Because dwarf gouramis breathe air using their labyrinth organ, make sure the tank also has a warm, humid air space above the water.
With good care, the Red Flame Dwarf Gourami becomes a calm, beautiful highlight in any freshwater aquarium.