These fish preferably inhabit calm shallow waters in canals and ponds with muddy and sandy bottoms.

They often have a rounded black spot with an orange margin at the base of the caudal fin. They feed on small fish, crayfish, worms and insect larvae.

Interesting facts

Both parents take care of the laying. Eggs hatch after 3 or 4 days and the parents transfer the fry into a shallow well where they stay for 6 or 7 days.

Conservation status