Trichogaster fasciata, the banded gourami, is a tropical labyrinth fish native to Bangladesh, Eastern India, Nepal, Upper Myanmar and Pakistan. It is benthopelagic and prefers weedy environments such as estuaries, ponds, large rivers, ditches, lakes and rice fields. Size of a fully grown male can be up to 12 centimetres (4.7 in). Females are usually a little smaller. In the fishkeeping hobby, the banded gourami is appreciated for its distinctive color bands and peaceful nature. It is somewhat shy but quite hardy, and easily adapts to life in community aquarium. It is also easy to breed in captivity. Additionally, the fish is used for food in its natural habitat. Due to having both ornamental and food value, the species may be overexploited, but it is currently widespread.