Albino Giant Gourami

Albino Giant Gourami (Osphronemus Gouramy)

The Albino Giant Gourami, also known as Golden Giant Gourami, is a fascinating and unique addition to your aquarium. This variant has red eyes, making them a true albino. Another variant has a white body, but the eyes are black. These majestic fish can reach up to 24 inches in size, making them one of the largest gourami species available. Typically found in schools of 3-5 individuals, the Albino Giant Gourami is known for its striking albino coloration, setting it apart from other fish in the tank.

This fish is not particularly challenging to maintain, but due to its considerable size, it requires an ample aquarium, making it more suitable for experienced aquarists who can provide a spacious habitat. A 30-gallon tank is sufficient for a juvenile, but an adult necessitates a minimum tank size of 200 gallons, with an even larger tank recommended if housed with other fish. A well-maintained specimen will reach full adult size in approximately 4 to 4.5 years.

Although the Albino Giant Gourami grows into large, robust fish, they become very personable pets. They can recognize their caretakers, and some owners have even reported being able to pet them. While they can be housed in community tanks, their behavior with tankmates can vary. They generally coexist peacefully with other sizable fish, but adult gouramis may exhibit aggression if confined to a small space. Suitable tankmates include knifefish, large catfish, and South American Loricariid (plecostomus) catfish. It's crucial to understand that adult gouramis will "own" their tank so that existing tankmates will be fine, but new additions may be at risk.

Given their size and activity level, minimal tank decorations are necessary. A suitable setup includes a dark-colored substrate to accentuate their colors, a few driftwood or rock pieces, and robust plants placed around the tank perimeter and floating on the surface. However, the Albino Giant Gourami consumes plants, so opt for fast-growing species. Their substantial appetite puts a significant strain on water quality and filtration, so a weekly water change of up to 50% is both recommended and essential.

Albino Giant Gouramis are omnivores, enjoying a balanced diet of high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods, and vegetable matter. Providing a varied diet will ensure their overall health and well-being.

The Albino Giant Gourami thrives in a spacious tank with a minimum size of 200 gallons. These fish prefer a well-planted environment with hiding spots, such as caves and rock formations.

The ideal water temperature for these gentle giants is 75-86°F (24-30°C), with a pH of 6.0-8.0 and hardness of 5-20 dGH. Given their size and unique requirements, caring for the Albino Giant Gourami is best suited for intermediate to expert aquarists.