Order : Cyprinodontiformes
Family : APLOCHEILIDAE
Species : Aplocheilus armatus
Maximum Length : 8 cm

An extremely adaptable species, the Whitespot can be found in a variety of habitats from forest streams to drainage ditches, and still water bodies to mangroves. In Singapore it even inhabits two small hot springs.

The Whitespot is mainly a surface dweller, and can easily identified by the white spot on top of the head. This fish is useful in controlling mosquito larvae and consequently has been introduced into mosquito-prone habitats.

The species occurs in most parts of Southeast Asia.

Figs 1 to 3 : Whitespots photographed in clear forest streams, Singapore.


References :

Lim, K.P. and Ng, K.L. 1990. A Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Singapore. Singapore Science Centre.