Pink Kissing Gourami

The Pink Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii) is a unique and entertaining freshwater fish known for its distinctive "kissing" behavior and attractive pink coloration. These large, peaceful gouramis use their specially adapted lips to scrape algae from surfaces and engage in fascinating mouth-pressing displays with each other. With their unusual behavior and gentle nature, Pink Kissing Gouramis make engaging centerpiece fish for larger community aquariums and are sure to become a conversation piece in any aquatic collection.

Care Sheet – Pink Kissing Gourami (Helostoma temminckii)

Temperament

• Generally peaceful, can be territorial with conspecifics

• "Kissing" behavior is typically non-aggressive

Adult Size

• 10–12 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 75 gallons for a single adult

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–82°F

• pH: 6.8–7.8

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous (leans toward herbivorous)

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality pellets or flakes for large fish

  • Spirulina-based foods and algae wafers

  • Blanched vegetables and occasional protein

• Feed 1–2 times daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Good for larger community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Other large, peaceful fish

  • Robust barbs, larger tetras, peaceful cichlids

  • Plecos and other substantial bottom dwellers

• Avoid very small fish that may be intimidated

Aquarium Setup

• Planted tanks with robust plants (may nibble soft plants)

• Open swimming space with some hiding areas

• Efficient filtration for clean water

• Access to surface for air breathing

Care Level

• Easy to moderate

• Good for intermediate aquarists with large tanks

Lifespan

• 5–7 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Distinctive "kissing" behavior used for feeding and social interaction

• Attractive pink coloration that develops with age

• Labyrinth organ allows breathing atmospheric air

• Engaging and entertaining centerpiece fish