Malayan leaffish (Pristolepis fasciata)

Scientific name: Pristolepis fasciata Bleeker, 1851

The Malayan leaffish (Pristolepis fasciata) is a freshwater fish of the family Nandidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 23–28°C (73–82°F). Native range: Asia, Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. Reported from the Maeklong River.

Malayan leaffish care at a glance

Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)

Biology

Found in slow or standing waters, among bushes of shore vegetation. Occurs in medium to large-sized rivers and flooded fields, lakes, ponds and swamps. Feeds on filamentous algae, submerged land plants, fruits and seeds with some aquatic insects and crustaceans. Undertakes lateral migrations from the Mekong River to the floodplains during the flood season and back again at the onset of the dry season.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Pristolepis fasciata
Family: Nandidae (Asian leaffishes)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-like fish)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 20.0
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 7.0 - ?; dH range: 10 - ? demersal; potamodromous
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: Asia: Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. Reported from the Maeklong River.
Conservation status (IUCN): Not Evaluated
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: minor commercial; aquarium: commercial