Malpulutta kretseri

A spotted fish; males are larger, with extensions to the pelvic and unpaired fins.

A spotted fish; males are larger, with extensions to the pelvic and unpaired fins. Colour forms with reddish, purple or blue fins are one species.

Adult length

Up to 5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)

Water temperature

24–28 °C

pH

5–7.5

Hardness

1–8 dGH

Native range

Asia: restricted to south western Sri Lanka in Colombo-Galle-Ratnapura triangle.

Natural habitat

Inhabits shallow, slow, shaded forest streams with silt, leaves and dense bank vegetation, staying close to the bottom.

Boldness varies greatly between individuals, and adding dither fish may not help. Leave a humid air layer above the water; dried foods cannot substitute for adequate feeding.