The second, less frequently used, common name of this species beautifully describes the delicate reticulated scale and fin patterns of this handsome fish. The basic body coloration of both sexes is brownish, but females lose the meshlike pattern when they are in spawning condition.
Other common name
- Honeycomb Combtail
Family
- Belontiidae
Subfamily
- Belontiinae
Distribution
- Borneo, Malaysia, Singapore, and Sumatra; also said to occur in Java.
Size
- Up to 8in (20cm), but often smaller.
Behavior
- Relatively peaceful except during breeding when males become territorial and aggressive.
Diet
- Primarily livefoods and deep-frozen/freeze-dried formulations; other commercial preparations also accepted; vegetable component recommended.
Aquarium
- Large, well planted, well illuminated, with good (but not over- turbulent) water fiitration. Water chemistry is not critical, but alkaline, hardish conditions are preferred. Temperature range: 77-86T (25-30°C).
Breeding
- Shallow water preferred; a bubble nest is usually, but not always, built. Hatching takes 1-2 days.
