Gourami's and Tiger barbs?

Question

My Gourami has recently started chasing my tiger barb in the tank, when it does this the tiger barb floats nose down tail up and stay's still as if he's unconscious allowing the Gourami attempt to nip him! Why do they do that ? and are Gourami's naturally agressive fish? Ive had one before and it didnt attack other fish.

Answer 1

If the gourami is considerably larger than the barb, this is normal.

Whether or not a gourami is aggressive depends on what kind it is.  Tiger barbs are themselves known to be semi-aggressive and notorious fin nippers.  However, barbs are a schooling fish, and you should have at least 6.

Answer 2

I had a red tailed black shark that used to chase the tigers like crazy. I suppose it just depends on the fish.

Answer 3

gouramis are agressive at times and are territorial. the tiger barb is probably gulping in air if you see his mouth on the surface.

Answer 4

gouramies can sometimes be aggressive. The reason a fish does the tail up thing is that the fish is saying that it is not willing to fight back and is surrendering.