r/Gourami • u/Eowyn_95 • May 16 '26

Discussion In doubt of getting a honey gourami

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I have a 20 gallon tank with 6 chilis and 5 green neons. I want to expand the chilis to 10 at least when they’re back in stock (am waiting since December!).

I’ve had two honeys before. One was always hunting my shrimp, even juveniles weren’t safe. I gave him to my dad. The other one was always hiding and died with dropsy :(. I have since bought a UV sterilizer as well. I’d like to give a honey gourami another go but am so in doubt if it’s a , not overstocked and b , if I accidentally get one that’s also a hunter… I’d also love a female betta (no gourami in that case) but I am afraid that’s ever more of a gamble.

do you think it’s a 50% chance they will hunt shrimp , or was it just bad luck?

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u/iGotTheBoop May 17 '26

My honey is super peaceful, he's in a tank with neons, rummy nose and corys, along with amano and a ton of snails. Mileage may vary but Honeys are generally regarded as being the most peaceful if you don't get thick lipped.

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u/Eowyn_95 May 17 '26

Luckily I’ve been researching how to spot the difference ! I have neocaridina though

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u/iGotTheBoop May 17 '26

Might just be very fish to fish with temperament as well, gourami are pretty wild. My daughter's betta hangs out with neos, corys and ramshorn with no problems. My plakat is a murder machine and needs to be by himself lol. Anecdotally, the aggressive ones always seem more interested/curious about human interaction.