Gouramis, or gouramies, are a group of freshwater anabantiform fishes that comprise the family Osphronemidae. The fish are native to Asia—from Indian Subcontinent to Southeast Asia and northeasterly towards Korea.

Although gouramis are not aggressive fish, males can become belligerent toward each other. However, I have a small group of male Cobalt Blue Dwarf Gouramis together with a couple of females, and the community is harmonious with no signs of aggression at all

Optimum water temperature for most gourami species is 74–79 degrees Fahrenheit (24–26 degrees Celsius). The water pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, with low hardness. Plant the aquarium well with Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, Vallisneria or other sturdy aquatic vegetation.