Clown featherback

Chitala ornata

A deep silver fish with large pale-ringed black spots above the rear anal-fin base; the number of spots varies.

Adult length: Up to 100 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 20–28 °C
pH: 6–8
Hardness: 2–15 dGH

The reported maximum is 100 cm SL, not typical adult TL. Specialist large facilities are required; no home-tank minimum is established here.

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Appearance and identification

A deep silver fish with large pale-ringed black spots above the rear anal-fin base; the number of spots varies. Compare royal featherback: its small anterior dots become rear oblique stripes, unlike these large ocelli. Trade names, spot counts and AI images cannot establish identification.

Same-species behaviour

Mostly nocturnal; provide dim refuges. Similar-shaped fish or conspecifics may compete for space.

Space requirements

The reported maximum is 100 cm SL, not typical adult TL. Specialist large facilities are required; no home-tank minimum is established here. Complete minimum footprint unknown.

Diet and feeding

A predator of small fish and invertebrates; suitable fish, shrimp and worms can replace live feeder fish.

Compatibility limits

Small fish and shrimp risk predation. Shelter and room for the large body take priority over dense planting.

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