Thick-lipped gourami

The thick-lipped gourami is a labyrinth fish in the family Osphronemidae, native to standing and slow-moving waters of Myanmar and surrounding parts of Southeast Asia. It has a compressed oval body colored brownish to orange with faint diagonal bands, notably fleshy lips, and thread-like pelvic fins used to sense its surroundings; captive strains include bright honey and sunset forms. It is a peaceful, somewhat shy fish suited to calm community tanks and can be kept singly or as a pair. As a labyrinth breather it gulps air at the surface, so access to the surface and calm water are important; a well-planted tank with subdued lighting helps it feel secure. It is an omnivore accepting flakes, pellets, and small live or frozen foods. It is a bubble-nest builder, the male constructing a surface nest and guarding the eggs, making it a rewarding species to breed in a quiet aquarium.