Osphronemidae
Quick Summary
The Osphronemidae family, also known as gouramis, comprises over 90 species of freshwater labyrinth fish native to Asia. These fish are characterized by their tropical habitat and a unique labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air.1
One notable member is the giant gourami (Osphronemus goramy), a large, oval-shaped fish prized for food and introduced globally. Young giant gouramis are dark-banded, while adults are brown or gray.1
Many other gourami species are popular in home aquariums, such as the dwarf gourami (Colisa lalia) and the three-spot gourami (Trichopodus trichopterus). The kissing gourami (Helostoma temmincki) is another well-known species, recognized for its distinctive "kissing" behavior.1
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