Can Honey Gourami Be Kept With Guppies – The Ultimate Guide

Written ByHoward Parker

Ever gazed at your aquarium and dreamed of a vibrant, peaceful community where different species coexist beautifully? You’re not alone! Many aspiring aquarists, and even seasoned hobbyists, often ask: can honey gourami be kept with guppies?

It’s a fantastic question, and one that hints at your desire for a thriving, balanced aquatic environment. The good news? This pairing is not only possible but can create a truly stunning display in your home aquarium. Forget the guesswork and potential heartache of incompatible fish; this guide is your definitive resource.

Here at Aquifarm, we’re dedicated to helping you cultivate the aquarium of your dreams. We promise to equip you with expert insights, practical tips, and a comprehensive understanding of how to make this delightful duo flourish together. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge needed to confidently introduce these charming fish, ensuring a peaceful and active community tank.

Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to successfully keeping Honey Gourami and Guppies side-by-side!

Understanding Your Fish: Honey Gourami & Guppies

Before we delve into compatibility, it’s crucial to understand the individual needs and temperaments of our two stars. Knowing their natural behaviors will help you create an environment where both can thrive.

Meet the Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna)

The Honey Gourami, often simply called the Honey Dwarf Gourami, is a truly captivating freshwater fish. They are known for their striking golden-orange to honey-yellow coloration, which intensifies during breeding. These labyrinth fish are peaceful, timid, and generally quite small.

Adults typically reach about 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) in length. They are slow-moving and prefer tanks with plenty of vegetation and subdued lighting. Unlike their larger, sometimes more aggressive gourami cousins, Honey Gourami are celebrated for their calm demeanor. They are anabantoids, meaning they can breathe atmospheric air through a specialized labyrinth organ, allowing them to survive in oxygen-poor waters in the wild.

Their peaceful nature makes them excellent candidates for community tanks, especially when paired with other docile species. They are generally shy and will appreciate ample hiding spots to feel secure.

Get to Know the Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)

Guppies are arguably one of the most popular and recognizable aquarium fish in the hobby. Hailing from South America, these livebearers are famous for their vibrant colors, elaborate finnage, and active, inquisitive personalities. Males are particularly stunning, showcasing a dazzling array of fin shapes and patterns.

Guppies are small, with males reaching about 1 inch (2.5 cm) and females up to 2 inches (5 cm). They are incredibly active, constantly darting around the tank, exploring and interacting. Guppies are also prolific breeders, a trait that makes them fascinating to observe but also requires careful management in a community setting.

Their generally peaceful nature and hardy disposition make them a favorite among beginners. However, their active swimming and long, flowing fins can sometimes attract the attention of fin-nipping species, which is something we’ll keep in mind when discussing compatibility.

Can Honey Gourami Be Kept with Guppies? The Compatibility Verdict!

So, let’s address the burning question directly: can honey gourami be kept with guppies successfully? The resounding answer is yes, absolutely! This pairing is often recommended for community tanks, particularly for aquarists seeking a harmonious and visually appealing setup.

The primary reasons for their excellent compatibility lie in their shared characteristics:

  • Peaceful Temperaments: Both species are known for their non-aggressive nature. Honey Gourami are gentle and shy, while Guppies, though active, are rarely confrontational.
  • Similar Water Parameter Needs: They thrive in similar water temperatures (typically 74-82°F or 23-28°C) and prefer slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.8-7.8) with moderate hardness. This shared requirement simplifies tank maintenance significantly.
  • Size Compatibility: Neither fish grows large enough to pose a threat to the other. The size difference is minimal, preventing any predatory behavior.
  • Different Tank Levels: Honey Gourami tend to inhabit the middle to upper levels of the tank, often near the surface due to their labyrinth organ. Guppies, while active throughout, frequently explore all levels. This reduces competition for space.

While generally compatible, success hinges on proper tank setup and care. Think of it like inviting two friendly people to share a room; as long as the room is comfortable and well-equipped, they’ll get along wonderfully. Let’s explore the benefits of can honey gourami be kept with guppies and how to ensure this perfect partnership.

Setting Up for Success: Ideal Tank Conditions and Best Practices

Achieving a thriving community tank with Honey Gourami and Guppies requires thoughtful planning. These can honey gourami be kept with guppies tips will guide you through creating an optimal environment.

Tank Size Matters

For a small group of Honey Gourami (e.g., one male and two females) and a small school of Guppies (e.g., 6-8 individuals), a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (75 liters) is recommended. This provides enough swimming space and territories for both species.

A larger tank, such as a 29-gallon or 30-gallon, is even better. More space helps dilute any potential stress or minor territorial squabbles, making it easier to manage the tank and maintain stable water parameters.

Water Parameters: A Shared Sweet Spot

As mentioned, both species enjoy similar water conditions. Aim for:

  • Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C). Consistency is key, so a reliable heater is essential.
  • pH: 6.8-7.8. A neutral to slightly alkaline environment is ideal.
  • Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH. Both appreciate moderately hard water.

Regular testing with a quality liquid test kit is crucial to monitor these parameters. Stable water conditions are the foundation of healthy fish.

Aquascaping for Harmony: Plants and Hiding Spots

This is where you can truly shine in creating a beautiful and functional environment. Both Honey Gourami and Guppies benefit immensely from a well-planted tank. For an eco-friendly can honey gourami be kept with guppies setup, live plants are a must.

Consider:

  • Dense Planting: Utilize plants like Java Fern, Anubias, Amazon Swords, and various stem plants. Dense areas of planting provide vital hiding spots for the shy Honey Gourami and for Guppy fry (if you have them).
  • Floating Plants: Frogbit, Dwarf Water Lettuce, or Salvinia Minima are excellent choices. They provide shade, which Honey Gourami love, and help diffuse lighting, making the tank feel more secure.
  • Driftwood and Rocks: These natural elements offer additional cover and break up lines of sight, which can prevent one fish from constantly seeing another and potentially stressing them out. Smooth river stones or small caves are perfect.

A thoughtfully aquascaped tank reduces stress, enhances natural behaviors, and makes your aquarium a joy to behold. It’s a cornerstone of sustainable can honey gourami be kept with guppies practices.

Filtration and Water Flow

A good filter is paramount for maintaining water quality. A hang-on-back (HOB) filter or a sponge filter is usually sufficient for a tank of this size. Ensure the filter provides adequate biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration.

However, Honey Gourami prefer relatively gentle water flow. Too strong a current can stress them, as they are not powerful swimmers. If your filter creates too much turbulence, consider adding a baffle or aiming the output towards the tank wall to reduce flow.

How to Can Honey Gourami Be Kept with Guppies: Stocking and Introduction Guide

Now that your tank is prepared, let’s talk about stocking and introducing your new inhabitants. Following these guidelines is key to a smooth transition and a happy community.

Stocking Ratios and Numbers

When planning your fish numbers, remember the “one inch of fish per gallon” rule is a *very* rough guideline and often leads to overstocking. Focus on bioload and individual fish needs.

  • Honey Gourami: It’s best to keep them in a small group, ideally one male with two or three females. This helps distribute any potential male aggression (which is rare but can occur during breeding) and makes the females feel more secure. A single Honey Gourami can also do well but may be more timid.
  • Guppies: Keep Guppies in groups of at least six to eight individuals. More importantly, maintain a ratio of at least two to three female Guppies for every male Guppy. Male Guppies are enthusiastic breeders and can relentlessly harass females if there aren’t enough to go around. This ratio reduces stress on the females and promotes a healthier environment.

Always introduce fish gradually to avoid overwhelming your filter’s biological capacity. Start with one group, let the tank stabilize for a week or two, then introduce the next.

Introducing New Fish: The Acclimation Process

Proper acclimation is crucial for minimizing stress and preventing shock when adding new fish to your established aquarium. This is a vital part of any can honey gourami be kept with guppies guide.

  1. Dim the Lights: Turn off your aquarium lights and room lights. This reduces stress on the new fish.
  2. Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing your new fish into your aquarium for 15-20 minutes. This allows the water temperature in the bag to equalize with your tank water.
  3. Drip Acclimation (Recommended):
    • Open the bag and roll down the edges to create a float.
    • Using an airline tube and a knot (or valve), start a slow drip of your tank water into the bag.
    • Allow the water volume in the bag to double over 30-60 minutes.
    • Once acclimated, gently net the fish and place them into your tank, discarding the old bag water (do *not* add it to your tank).
  4. Observe: Keep an eye on your new fish for the first few hours and days. Look for signs of stress, labored breathing, or unusual swimming patterns.

Observing Behavior and Adjusting

Even with the best planning, fish are individuals. Spend time observing your tank after introduction. Watch for:

  • Fin Nipping: Are Guppies nipping at the Gourami’s delicate fins? Or vice versa? (Rare, but possible if a Gourami is unusually aggressive or a Guppy is particularly bothersome).
  • Hiding: Is a Honey Gourami constantly hiding and refusing to come out for food? It might be overly stressed.
  • Aggression: Are Guppy males overly harassing females, or are Gouramis chasing each other excessively?

Most minor issues resolve as fish settle in. However, if problems persist, you may need to adjust your stocking, add more hiding spots, or in rare cases, rehome a particularly aggressive individual. This proactive approach is part of good can honey gourami be kept with guppies care guide practices.

Daily Care and Feeding: A Sustainable Community

Consistent daily care is fundamental to the long-term health and vibrancy of your Honey Gourami and Guppy community. These sustainable can honey gourami be kept with guppies practices will keep your tank thriving.

Diet for Both Species

Both Honey Gourami and Guppies are omnivores, meaning they eat a varied diet of plant and animal matter. A diverse diet is crucial for their health, coloration, and immune system.

  • High-Quality Flakes/Pellets: A good staple diet should be a high-quality flake or micro-pellet food formulated for small community fish.
  • Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms 2-3 times a week. These provide essential proteins and stimulate natural foraging behaviors.
  • Live Foods: Occasionally offering live foods like brine shrimp or micro worms can be a treat and a great way to condition fish for breeding.
  • Vegetable Matter: Guppies especially appreciate some plant-based foods. Spirulina flakes or blanched zucchini slices can be offered periodically.

Feed small amounts two to three times a day, only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes. Overfeeding leads to poor water quality and health issues.

Water Changes and Maintenance

Regular water changes are arguably the most important aspect of aquarium maintenance. They remove nitrates, replenish essential minerals, and keep your water pristine.

  • Weekly Water Changes: Aim for a 20-25% water change every week.
  • Gravel Vacuuming: Use a gravel vacuum to remove detritus and uneaten food from the substrate during water changes.
  • Filter Maintenance: Rinse filter media in old tank water (never tap water, which can kill beneficial bacteria) every 2-4 weeks. Replace mechanical media (floss/sponge) as needed, but avoid replacing all media at once to preserve beneficial bacteria.
  • Algae Control: Keep algae in check with proper lighting, nutrient control, and potentially an algae scraper. Avoid harsh chemical treatments if possible.

Monitoring Health and Preventing Disease

Healthy fish are active, have clear eyes, intact fins, and good coloration. Regularly observe your fish for any changes in behavior or appearance.

  • Signs of Illness: Look for clamped fins, lethargy, loss of appetite, white spots (ich), frayed fins, or unusual growths.
  • Quarantine Tank: It’s highly recommended to have a small quarantine tank (5-10 gallons) for new fish or sick individuals. This prevents the spread of disease to your main display tank.
  • Stress Reduction: A clean, stable environment with proper tank mates and diet is your best defense against disease. Stress weakens fish immune systems, making them susceptible to illness.

Common Problems with Can Honey Gourami Be Kept with Guppies & Troubleshooting

Even in the best setups, minor issues can arise. Knowing how to identify and address common problems with can honey gourami be kept with guppies will save you stress and keep your fish healthy.

Fin Nipping

While generally peaceful, Guppies’ long, flowing fins can sometimes tempt other fish to nip. Conversely, a stressed or unusually aggressive Honey Gourami *could* nip, but this is rare. More often, it’s Guppies themselves nipping at each other, or perhaps a boisterous Guppy male being a bit too playful with a timid Gourami.

Solutions:

  • More Hiding Spots: Increase dense planting and decor to break up lines of sight and provide refuge.
  • Adjust Ratios: Ensure you have plenty of female Guppies per male to reduce male-on-male or male-on-female harassment.
  • Observe Closely: Identify the culprit. If a specific Guppy is the problem, consider separating it temporarily or rehoming.

Gourami Timidity

Honey Gourami are naturally shy. If they’re constantly hiding, refusing to eat, or looking pale, they might be overly stressed.

Solutions:

  • Check Tank Mates: Are there any overly boisterous or semi-aggressive fish in the tank besides Guppies? Remove them if so.
  • Increase Cover: Add more floating plants, tall plants, or small caves.
  • Subdued Lighting: Reduce intense lighting, perhaps by adding more floating plants, to make them feel more secure.

Guppy Overpopulation

Guppies are prolific breeders. If you have both sexes, you will inevitably have fry. While some Honey Gourami might snack on tiny fry, they won’t typically control the population entirely.

Solutions:

  • Sex-Specific Tanks: Keep only male Guppies (or only female Guppies) if you want to avoid breeding altogether.
  • Predator Fish: While Honey Gourami are mild predators, a few other peaceful, small fish (e.g., small tetras) might help keep fry numbers down naturally without harming adult Guppies or Gouramis.
  • Rehoming: Be prepared to rehome excess fry to a local fish store or other hobbyists.

Aggression During Spawning

While rare and mild, male Honey Gourami can become slightly more territorial during breeding, especially if they are building a bubble nest. This aggression is usually directed at other Gourami males or females they are trying to attract, not Guppies.

Solutions:

  • Plenty of Space: A larger tank with ample hiding spots usually mitigates this.
  • Broken Line of Sight: Dense planting helps break up territories.
  • Observation: If a male Gourami is being overly aggressive, ensure there are enough females to diffuse his attention, or consider temporarily separating him if necessary (very rare for Honey Gouramis).

Benefits of Can Honey Gourami Be Kept with Guppies

Choosing this particular pairing brings a host of advantages, making it a truly rewarding experience for aquarists. Understanding these benefits of can honey gourami be kept with guppies might just convince you this is the perfect setup for your next tank.

  • Visually Stunning: The vibrant, active Guppies provide a fantastic contrast to the calm, iridescent beauty of the Honey Gourami. This combination creates a dynamic and aesthetically pleasing display that’s a joy to watch.
  • Peaceful Coexistence: With proper setup, you’ll enjoy a tranquil community tank free from constant squabbles and stress, allowing both species to display their natural behaviors.
  • Beginner-Friendly: Both species are relatively hardy and adaptable, making them excellent choices for those new to the hobby. Their similar care requirements simplify maintenance.
  • Active and Engaging: Guppies bring constant movement and energy, while Honey Gourami offer a more serene presence. This balance provides continuous interest without being overwhelming.
  • Natural Fry Control (Partial): While Honey Gourami won’t eliminate all Guppy fry, they may help manage the population by consuming some of the vulnerable newborns. This can be a benefit if you’re not looking to breed Guppies extensively.
  • Unique Behaviors: You’ll get to observe the Honey Gourami’s labyrinth breathing and bubble nest building (if they breed), alongside the Guppies’ elaborate courtship dances and constant exploration.

This pairing truly offers a rewarding experience, blending beauty with ease of care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Gourami and Guppy Compatibility

Let’s tackle some common questions you might still have about this popular pairing. These insights are part of our commitment to a comprehensive can honey gourami be kept with guppies guide.

Will Honey Gourami eat Guppy fry?

Yes, Honey Gourami will likely eat Guppy fry if they are small enough to fit into their mouths. Like most fish, they are opportunistic feeders. While they won’t actively hunt down every single fry, they will readily consume any they come across. If you want to save Guppy fry, you’ll need dense planting for hiding or a separate breeding net/tank.

Do Honey Gourami need to be kept in groups?

Honey Gourami can be kept singly, but they generally do better and display more natural behaviors in a small group, ideally one male with two or three females. This creates a more stable social dynamic and allows them to feel more secure. A single Gourami might be more timid.

Can I keep other fish with them?

Absolutely! Honey Gourami and Guppies are excellent community fish. Good tank mates include other peaceful, small, schooling fish like Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Ember Tetras, Rasboras (Harlequin, Chili), Corydoras catfish, Otocinclus catfish, and peaceful dwarf shrimp like Cherry Shrimp (though Gouramis might eat shrimplets). Avoid anything aggressive, fin-nipping, or much larger than either species.

How large should my tank be for this pairing?

A minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters) is recommended for a small group of Honey Gourami and Guppies. However, a 29-gallon or 30-gallon tank provides more stability, swimming space, and flexibility for additional peaceful tank mates, making it an even better choice for long-term success.

What if my Honey Gourami is bullying my Guppies?

This is highly unusual for Honey Gourami, as they are one of the most peaceful gourami species. If you observe bullying, first confirm it’s actually the Gourami and not another fish. Then, consider:

  • Tank Size: Is the tank too small, leading to territorial disputes?
  • Hiding Spots: Is there enough cover for everyone to feel secure?
  • Fish Health: Is the Gourami stressed or sick, causing unusual behavior?
  • Species Misidentification: Double-check that you truly have a Honey Gourami, as other gourami species can be more aggressive.

In rare cases, you may need to separate the fish if the aggression persists and causes harm.

Conclusion

Congratulations, fellow aquarist! You now possess a deep understanding of how to successfully answer the question, “can honey gourami be kept with guppies?” This delightful pairing offers a beautiful, peaceful, and active addition to any home aquarium, from the beginner’s first tank to an experienced hobbyist’s serene display.

By prioritizing proper tank size, stable water parameters, thoughtful aquascaping, and attentive daily care, you can create an environment where these two charming species not only coexist but truly flourish. Remember the importance of careful observation, especially during the initial introduction, and be ready to make minor adjustments as needed. This proactive approach is the hallmark of a responsible and successful aquarist.

Embrace the joy of watching your Honey Gourami glide gracefully through the water, their golden hues catching the light, while your Guppies dart and dance with their vibrant fins. This harmonious community is within your reach. Go forth and create your stunning, thriving aquascape – your fish (and your eyes!) will thank you for it!

Howard Parker
Latest posts by Howard Parker (see all)