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The Kissing Gourami is also known as the Kisser Fish, Pink Kisser, or Green Kisser. The wild strain of the Kissing Gourami is green and the bred strain is silvery-peach. The Kissing Gourami has thick lips that can be extended or pursed, as if kissing. It is generally a tolerant species, but males may occasionally fight by pressing their lips together (i.e., kissing). The weaker of the two will normally back down. The Kissing Gourami is a surface breather equipped with a special organ which allows it to breathe directly from the air. As a result, it must have access to the surface of the water in the aquarium.

The Kissing Gourami requires a 30 gallon or larger tank with stones and plants. Plastic plants are best because it will eat most all vegetation in the aquarium, although Java Fern and possibly Java Moss may also be used. There is no need to clean the back of the aquarium because the Kissing Gourami will browse on the algae that is growing there. The Kissing Gourami is peaceful with other fish of similar size and will tolerate others of the same species.

There are no distinguishing characteristics between the male and female, although the female is usually heavier than the male. The Kissing Gourami requires soft water for breeding and does not build a nest. Lettuce leaves should be laid on the surface for use as spawning material. The eggs will float to the lettuce where the fry will get nourishment from the bacteria and infusoria that is on the lettuce.

The Kissing Gourami is an omnivore and requires both algae-based foods as well as meaty foods. An algae-based flake food, along with freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp will provide this fish with the proper nutrition.

Ideal tank mates include: Guppies, Platies, Mollies, Swordtails, Tetras, Rasboras, Danios, Rainbowfish, Barbs, Loaches, Plecos and Scavenger Catfish.