Can Pearl Gourami live with Weather Loach?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Pearl Gourami and Weather Loach Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperature margin is tight — only 2°F of safe overlap, which leaves little room for thermostat drift.
Pearl Gourami
Trichopodus leerii
| Adult Size: | 4.5" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 20 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-82°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Weather Loach
Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
| Adult Size: | 10.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 50-77°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-8.0 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Pearl Gourami | Weather Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75-82°F | 50-77°F | 2°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 | 6.0-8.0 | 1.5 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + peaceful. Both peaceful → minimal conflict.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Pearl Gourami (4.5") vs Weather Loach (10.0"). A 5.5" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
Score: 50.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 30 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 75°F and 77°F.
- pH: maintain 6.0 – 7.5.
- Hiding spots: essential for Pearl Gourami — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 30+ gallons:
Sinking wafers for loaches and bottom feeders
Explore Related Checks
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Pearl Gourami may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.