Kissing Gourami

Helostoma temminckii

The 'kissing' fish — actually a large, sometimes pushy gourami that needs real space.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

72–82°F

pH

6–8

Hardness

5–20 dGH

Max size

10 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Solitary

Swim level

All

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

7-10 years

Breeding

Egg-scatterer

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Southeast Asia

The famous lip-locking is a test of strength, not affection. Kissers get large and can bully smaller fish, so plan for a big tank.