Chitala ornata

(Gray, 1831)

Vernacular names
English : Clown featherback
French : Poisson-couteau clown

Classification
Class : Teleostei
Order : Osteoglossiformes
Family : Notopteridae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a total length of 100 cm for a weight of 5 kg. Back humped, small head with very large mouth. Anal fin very long, merging with caudal fin. Coloration silvery with a row of big ocellated black spots at base of anal fins.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in South East Asia, from the Mae Klong basin in Thailand to Mekong basin in Lao and Cambodia. Introduced to Myanmar and Philippines. Lives in lowland rivers, temporary flooded areas and swamps.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species was declining during the previous decades due to overexploitation for food and aquarium trade. The species is now cultured in Asia.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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