Order : Anabantiformes
Family : OSPHRONEMIDAE
Species : Trichopsis vittata

Maximum Length : 7 cm

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Trichopsis vittata (Croaking Gouramy) inhabits freshwater streams of neutral pH in open countryside, as well as ponds and lakes. It is able to tolerate water deficient in oxygen, relying on its labyrinth organ to extract oxygen directly from free air.

This species is so-called because it is able to vocalise, making soft croaking sounds by which it appears to communicate with others of its species. It builds a bubble-nest hidden amongst floating vegetation.

Reaching just 7 cm in length, it has a small mouth and a pointed, slightly upturned snout. The eyes are reddish. The dorsal, ventral, anal and tail fins are often patterned in a vibrant turquoise colour, but some populations may be darker purple. Darker lateral stripes may also be present. 

Trichopsis vittata ranges from Indochina through Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore to Sumatra, Java and Borneo.

Fig 1 : Example resting on the substrate of a shallow, silty pond at Kranji Marshes,  Singapore.

Fig 2 : Kranji Marshes, Singapore.

Figs 3 and 4 : Examples from rural streams in the Western Catchment, Singapore..


References :

Lim, K.P. and Ng, K.L. 1990. A Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Singapore. Singapore Science Centre.