Anabas testudineus

A sturdy fish with spiny gill covers. During breeding, males of some Indian populations become reddish with a black diamond on the caudal peduncle; females are rounder and thicker, with a less distinct tail-base mark.

Adult length

Up to 20 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)

Water temperature

15–30 °C

Lifespan

Up to 8 years

pH

5.5–8

Hardness

2–25 dGH

Must be able to reach the surface to breathe and needs escape prevention. Unsuitable for a typical community of small fish. Movement on land does not mean it climbs trees, and fish should not deliberately be taken out of water.