Heteropneustes microps (Günther, 1864)

Description


Taxonomic Hierarchy


Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Teleostei

Order: Siluriformes

Family: Heteropneustidae

Genus: Heteropneustes

Species: Heteropneustes microps (Günther, 1864)

Climate Zone


  • Tropical
  • Location


    Biology


    Facultative air-breathing in the genus (Ref. 126274); Adults occur mainly in swamps and similar still, often turbid waters (e.g. irrigation ditches). Form loose schools of about ten individuals of approximately the same size. Enter brackish water. Can survive temperatures up to 39.8°C (Ref. 7256). An omnivore with nocturnal feeding habits. Oviparous, distinct pairing possibly like other members of the same family (Ref. 205). Very easily maintained in captivity. Sympatric with H. fossilis which is more abundant in the type locality. Best method of catch is dewatering of small water holes during drought period.

    Habitat


    brackish