Can Sparkling Gourami live with Zebra Danio?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Sparkling Gourami and Zebra Danio Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperature margin is tight — only 0°F of safe overlap, which leaves little room for thermostat drift.
Sparkling Gourami
Trichopsis pumila
| Adult Size: | 1.5" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 5 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-82°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
| Adult Size: | 2.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 10 gal |
| Temperature: | 64-75°F |
| pH Range: | 6.5-7.5 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Sparkling Gourami | Zebra Danio | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75-82°F | 64-75°F | No overlap ✗ |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 | 6.5-7.5 | 1.0 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + peaceful. Both peaceful → minimal conflict.
Score: 50.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 10 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: no safe overlap range exists. A heater is not enough to fix this pairing.
- pH: maintain 6.5 – 7.5.
- Hiding spots: essential for Sparkling 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 10+ gallons:
Complete 20-gallon LED kit
Explore Related Checks
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Sparkling 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.