Can Kissing Gourami live with Zebra Otocinclus?
Caution — with care
Why
- Very different sizes (Kissing Gourami 12" vs Zebra Otocinclus 1.5") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–8 dGH.
- Kissing Gourami is semi-aggressive — give the peaceful Zebra Otocinclus plenty of space, cover and broken sight lines.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–79°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Kissing Gourami | Zebra Otocinclus | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 72–79°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.6 | 6–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 6–8 dGH | 2–10 dGH |
| Adult size | 12" | 1.5" |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 75 gal | 10 gal |
Together, plan on at least 75 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Use a larger, well-decorated tank with sightline breaks, keep everyone well-fed, and add the calmer fish first.
Sort it with: A larger tank · GH remineraliser
Where to buy
- Zebra Otocinclus: buy at The Shrimp Farm · The Shrimp Farm live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
Skapelab plans a complete, buildable planted aquarium around your fish — a hand-illustrated layout, the exact plants and hardscape, a placement map, and a full equipment and shopping list. Free.
Design a tank with Kissing Gourami, Zebra Otocinclus →Everything compatible with Kissing Gourami · …with Zebra Otocinclus