Belontia signata

Adults often reach about 12 cm in length. The caudal fin has an uneven edge, resembling the teeth of a comb. The dorsal and anal fins are pointed. The coloration is usually monochromatic, varying from red to yellow-brown hues. Sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed; females differ from males only in their smaller size.

This species is endemic to the island of Sri Lanka, located in Southeast Asia, near the coast of India. It inhabits river systems and small streams that wind their way through tropical forests. Belontia prefers bodies of water with slow currents, clear water, a substrate of sand or stones, and abundant riparian vegetation.

This fish is characterized by pronounced aggression towards both its conspecifics and representatives of other species. This is mainly observed in males. Solitary keeping or keeping in pairs (male/female) is recommended. In more spacious aquariums, from 200 liters, cohabitation with some large carp species comparable in size to Belontia signata is permissible. Any small fish species may become targets of persecution and be eaten.

For keeping a single pair of fish, an aquarium of at least 140 liters is required. For decoration, use a soft sandy substrate; it is recommended to place dense thickets of rooted plants in groups, supplementing them with areas of floating species. Many shelters in the form of snags, roots, and tree branches are also welcome. Keeping conditions involve low lighting and gentle filtration to avoid excessive internal current. Hydrochemical water parameters should correspond to neutral pH values with low hardness (dGH). It is advisable to equip the aquarium with a lid to maintain a warm, humid layer of air above the surface, which is critically important for the respiration of labyrinth fish. Care includes regular cleaning of the substrate from organic debris and weekly replacement of 10–15% of the water volume with fresh water.

Belontia signata are predatory species. Their diet should include large live or frozen foods, such as earthworms or mollusks (mussels, shell-less snails, etc.). Young fish can feed on bloodworms and brine shrimp. It should be noted that Belontia are often successfully accustomed to dry granulated foods, so when purchasing, be sure to clarify what the fish have been fed.

Unlike most labyrinth fish, male Belontia signata do not pay much attention to nest building, so it is usually quite primitive. After spawning, the male remains with the clutch to protect the future offspring. During this period, his behavior becomes excessively aggressive, even towards the female, so it is recommended to temporarily transfer her to a separate aquarium. When the fry appear, the female can be returned, and the young can be placed in a separate tank to avoid being eaten by the parents.

The main cause of most diseases in Leaf Fish is unsuitable keeping conditions and poor-quality nutrition. If initial symptoms are observed, it is first necessary to check water parameters and the concentration of dangerous substances such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. If the indicators deviate from the norm, they should be brought back into order, and only then should treatment begin. More detailed information on symptoms and treatment methods can be found in the "Aquarium Fish Diseases" section.

When choosing Belontia signata, it is important to assess the fish's overall condition: it should be active, without visible scale damage, ulcers, or white film on the body. Avoid individuals with sluggish behavior, clamped fins, or signs of emaciation, as this species is prone to aggression, which often leads to injuries in overcrowded aquarium conditions.

• Ask the seller about the current diet: whether the fish is accustomed to dry foods, as it can be difficult to transition a predator to artificial food.
• Check for signs of infection, such as rapid breathing or an unnaturally swollen abdomen.
• Consider the territorial nature of the species: even young individuals can show pronounced aggression towards neighbors, so it is best to choose fish of approximately the same size.