Among saltwater and freshwater fish for aquariums, Dwarf Gourami Fish are well-known as some of the most colourful and interactive fish species. Within gouramis types, the white gourami fish is a much sought-after option for its elegant and rare appearance. While gouramis are traditionally found in blue, red, or orange hues, white gouramis are associated with a unique, almost ethereal aesthetic that brightens any freshwater tank.
This guide will explore the most popular white gourami types as well as describe how to care for white gourami fish, including saltwater tank setups, compatibility, and tips to keep your white gourami healthy and vibrant.
What Is a White Gourami Fish?
A white gourami fish is one of the many types of gourami freshwater fish, but represents a colour morph of several distinct gouramis. It’s generally a product of selective breeding of the blue or 3-spot gourami that contributes to the familiar white or platinum colouration, giving these fish a striking pale aura.
White gouramis are available in a small dwarftypes under 2 inches to giant gouramis over 2 feet long. While they differ in colour, they display the same peaceful, labyrinth-fish characteristics, such as their ability to breathe air using the labyrinth organ. This natural adaptation allows white gouramis to survive in lower-oxygen environments.
Types of White Gourami Fish – How Many Varieties of White Dwarf Gouramis Are There?
Platinum White Gourami
The platinum white gourami is one of the most common white gourami variants. Sometimes referred to as a colour morph of the 3-spot gourami, this fish features a platinum-white body with subtle iridescent reflections. When seen through aquarium lighting, the fish appears to be embedded with a gem.
Details of Platinum White Gourami Fish
- Size: Up to 4–5 inches
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, but males can be territorial. al
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons of water for a single fish; 55 gallons for multiple
- Compatibility: Works well with other peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, and corydoras.
- Care Tips: Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots to reduce stress; maintain stable water parameters
The platinum white gourami is a perfect option for hobbyists seeking a fish that not only complements planted aquariums but is also capable of thriving in community tanks.
Pure White Dwarf Gourami Fish
The white dwarf gourami is much smaller, usually under 2 inches, and exudes a similar white or pale silver. It is similar to its dwarf cousins in its peaceful nature.
Details of Platinum White Gourami Fish
- Size: 1.5–2 inches
- Temperament: Very gentle; males may become slightly territorial in tiny tanks.
- Tank Size: 10–20 gallons for a single or pair; perfect for nano aquariums.
- Compatibility: Ideal with small community fish such as neon tetras or sparkling gouramis.
- Care Tips: These tiny gems appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots; ensure water quality is high to prevent stress and disease.
The white dwarf gourami is particularly suited for beginners, both for its compact size and visually striking appearance.
Giant White Gourami – The Largest White Gourami Fish Type
The giant white gourami is especially appealing to experienced hobbyists who seek out both the challenge and reward of maintaining these giant fish in home aquariums. This variant can grow enormously as compared to dwarf or standard gouramis, reaching almost 24 inches in length.
- Size: Up to 2 feet
- Temperament: Peaceful but can dominate smaller tank mates due to size
- Tank Size: Requires at least 200 gallons; ideally kept in ponds or very large aquariums
- Compatibility: Best kept with large, non-aggressive fish; avoid small fish that could be eaten
- Care Tips: Requires a spacious tank with strong filtration; provide a varied diet including pellets, vegetables, and occasional live foods.
The giant white gourami is not made for beginners, but can surely make an impressive centrepiece for large tanks and pond setups for those willing to provide for them.
Are White Gourami Fish Good for Beginners?
Yes. White gouramis, including the White dwarf gouramis and platinum white gouramis, are truly beginner-friendly. To begin with, they are extremely hardy and can tolerate a wider range of water parameters than more sensitive species.
However, it’s important to take into account their size and temperament as they tend to grow quite long, up to 5 or 6 inches, and resort to semi-aggressive behaviour.
That’s why they need an environment where they can move around freely, ideally a 30-gallon tank or larger. In case of smaller tanks, avoid adding them first. Unlike the peaceful Pearl or Honey Gourami, the males may bully smaller tank mates or other gouramis.
The male and female gouramis can easily get into squabbles, so it is important to identify males versus females to maintain harmony. Males typically have longer, pointed dorsal fins, while females have shorter, rounded ones.
Feeding White Gourami Fish – White Gouramis Diet
White gouramis are omnivores, meaning they require a balanced diet that consists of a variety of greens and proteins.
- Staple Foods: High-quality flake or pellet food formulated for tropical fish
- Protein Supplements: Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia 2–3 times per week
- Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini, cucumber, or spirulina-based foods
They should be fed once or twice in discrete amounts that can be readily consumed to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.
White Gourami Fish Temperament & Compatibility
While generally peaceful, males of all white gourami types can become territorial, especially in limited spaces. If you intend to keep them in Community tanks, it’s best to pair them with small, non-aggressive species like dwarf gouramis, tetras, or rasboras that aren’t direct rivals.
It’s advisable to keep them away from aggressive species or other similar-shaped labyrinth fish. For example, placing the male betta can trigger a highly aggressive territorial response due to their shared biological ancestry and competing bubble-nesting instincts.
The mating behaviour of the White Gourami (Three-Spot variety) is a complex, fascinating process that centres on the male’s role as an architect and protector. Like other anabantoids, they utilise a unique bubble-nesting strategy to ensure the survival of their offspring in low-oxygen environments.
White Gourami Mating is a complex, fascinating process where the male takes on a primary role as an architect and protector. It first builds an intricate bubble nest made up of floating plants or debris to hold the eggs, and then courts the female until eggs are released.
Read our blog on dwarf gourami breeding to learn how you can breed them at home.
White Gourami Tank Setup Guide
No matter which white gourami you choose, all white gourami fish thrive in similar tank conditions. When setting up the white gourami tank, the following elements are crucial for a successful white gourami tank setup for their robust growth and vibrant colour.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Filtration & Aeration
Gentle filtration is sufficient as all gouramis can breathe from the surface. Their labyrinth organ allows them to gulp air directly, making them less dependent on high oxygen levels in the water than many other tropical fish.
Plants & Décor for Gouramis
Surround the tank with floating plants, driftwood, and caves that mimic natural habitats and provide visual barriers to hide. Live plants are especially beneficial for white gouramis, helping reduce stress and improve water quality. Here is a list of the 15 best freshwater aquarium plants for your tanks.
Tank Lighting for White Dwarf Gouramis
The lighting should be moderate enough to accentuate the white colouration, as intense lighting can stress the fish. For more inspiration on layouts, décor balance, and plant placement, explore our guide on Aquascaping Ideas to Decorate Your Reef Tank & Fish Aquariums.
White Gourami Life Span
Albino or white gouramis typically live around 4 to 6 years in a well-maintained aquarium. With optimal care and stable water conditions, a balanced diet, and minimal stress—they can sometimes reach up to 7 years. Regular tank maintenance and proper nutrition are key to maximizing their lifespan.
Conclusion
White gourami fish make a stunning addition to freshwater aquariums, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist. Their spectacular variety, from the elegant platinum white gourami to the compact white dwarf gourami to the impressive giant white gourami, means you can find a suitable gourami for tank size and skill level.
Explore your local fish store or reputable breeders to add a platinum, dwarf, or giant white gourami to your tank today, and the elegance, intelligence, and calming presence that white gourami fish bring to a well-balanced freshwater aquarium.
Some Quick FAQs About White Gouramis
How long do white gourami fish live?
Yes, certain white gourami varieties like the white dwarf gourami and platinum white gourami typically live 4–6 years, while giant white gouramis can live up to 20 years with proper care.
Are white gouramis rare to find?
Yes, platinum and dwarf white varieties are less common than standard blue or red gouramis, making them highly sought after by hobbyists.
Do white gouramis need air pumps?
No, their labyrinth organ allows them to breathe surface air, though gentle filtration and surface movement are beneficial.
Can multiple white gouramis live together?
Yes, gouramis can live in groups as long as the tank is large enough and males are monitored for aggression. White dwarf gourami survives best in groups with one male per tank under 20 gallons.
Why is my white gourami turning yellow or grey?
This usually happens when the white gourami fish are stressed, or the water is of a lower quality. It’s vital to ensure proper water parameters while providing adequate hiding spots and a balanced diet to preserve their original colour.
How big do albino gouramis get?
Albino gouramis, often referring to albino variants of the three-spot or dwarf gourami, typically grow to 2.5–4 inches (6–10 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live up to 5–8 years, but they remain smaller than larger gourami species.
What is the most beautiful gourami fish?
Beauty is subjective, but many aquarists consider the Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius) the most stunning due to its bright blue, red, and orange coloration. Other favorites include the Pearl Gourami, known for its pearly patterns and graceful fins, and the Kissing Gourami for its unique pink hue and playful behavior.
What types of gouramis are there?
Gouramis are a diverse family of freshwater fish, mainly from Southeast Asia. Common types include:
- Dwarf Gourami (Trichogaster lalius)
- Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii)
- Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii)
- Three-spot Gourami / Blue Gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus)
- Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna)
- Opaline Gourami (a color variant of the Blue Gourami)
- Moonlight Gourami (Trichopodus microlepis)
What is the largest species of gourami?
The Giant Gourami (Osphronemus goramy) holds the record as the largest gourami species. They can reach up to 28 inches (70 cm) in length and weigh several pounds, making them more suited for large ponds or very spacious aquariums rather than standard home tanks.