Java combtail

Belontia hasselti

Grey-brown with a mosaic across the fins.

Grey-brown with reticulated patterns on dorsal, anal and tail fins.

Natural habitat: Typically inhabits acidic freshwater peat swamps and slow channels, shaded by forest with brown water and beds of leaves, wood and peat.

Small fish may be eaten; conspecific aggression requires caution. Suits 21–26°C, pH 4.5–8.5, 1–25 dGH; subdued light, gentle flow.

Appearance and identification

Mature males are larger with extended fins; juveniles cannot be reliably sexed. Air breathing requires surface access.

Adults are not shoalers. Even paired females may be attacked; prepare separation.

Small fish may be eaten; conspecific aggression requires caution.

At least a 120 × 30 cm base for one pair, with sheltered retreats.

Plants, floating cover and wood can create shaded retreats; leave surface access.

Offer suitably sized live/frozen foods and pellets; adults may ignore tiny foods.

Sources