Can Cherry Barb live with Thick-lipped Gourami?
Light caution
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7.5 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–81°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Cherry Barb | Thick-lipped Gourami | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–15 dGH | 6–7.5 dGH |
| Adult size | 2" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 15 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser
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Design a tank with Cherry Barb, Thick-lipped Gourami →Everything compatible with Cherry Barb · …with Thick-lipped Gourami