Anabantids
Combtail
Belontia signata (Combtails Fish) are not usually recommended for community tanks because as they get older they become somewhat belligerent, especially if they attempt to breed. At this time quarrels may break out between males as they tussle for the dominant female. In a species aquarium, the shoal develops a pecking order. Smaller fishes may be harassed to such an extent that they remain hidden all day. These medium-to large-sized fishes may be kept with others that are able to stand up for themselves.
Combtails will breed in the community aquarium. If several are kept together and they are well cared for, they will pair naturally, find themselves a prospective breeding site, and herd the other fishes out of the way. The eggs are laid in clumps under a plant leaf, usually in a single layer of bubbles. Once free swimming, the fry are very easy to raise as they will take flake and newly hatched brine shrimp. The problems arise as they grow, because the larger ones tend to bully their smaller siblings and it is not unusual to get a large number of runts in the brood.
