
Fig 1

Fig 2
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Order : Perciformes
Family : OSPHRONEMIDAE
Species : Trichopsis vittata
Maximum Length : 7 cm
The attractive Croaking
Gouramy inhabits freshwater streams of neutral pH in open countryside, as
well as stillwater ponds and lakes. It is able to tolerate water deficient
in oxygen, relying on its labyrinth organ to extract oxygen directly from
free air.
This species is so-called because it is able to vocalise, making soft
croaking sounds by which it appears to communicate with others of its
species. It builds a bubble-nest hidden amongst floating vegetation.
Reaching just 6 cm in length, it has a small mouth and a pointed, slightly
upturned snout. The eyes are reddish. The dorsal, ventral, anal and tail
fins are often patterned in a vibrant turquoise colour, but some populations
may be darker purple. Darker lateral stripes may also be present.
The Croaking Gouramy ranges from Indochina through Thailand, Peninsular
Malaysia and Singapore to Sumatra, Java and Borneo.
Fig 1 : Resting on the substrate of a shallow, silty pond.
Singapore.
Fig 2 : Feeding amongst aquatic plants in a rural stream. Singapore.
References :
Lim, K.P. and Ng, K.L. 1990. A Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of
Singapore. Singapore Science Centre.
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