Author: (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
Remark: No recent work; see Eigenmann & Eigenmann (1889:105) for key of identification; Géry (1977:103) for description in key.
Comments: Lives in creeks and marshy zones where it can survive in water with low oxygen levels due to some anatomical modification of its swim bladder which serves as a respiratory appendage.  It stays on the bottom as well as at the surface among floating vegetation (Ref. 27188).  Feeds on small fishes and insects (Ref. 12225).  Known among aquarists since 1910, its culture is reputedly difficult and its reproduction in captivity has not been reported to date (Ref. 27188).  Reported to reach around 25 cm SL (Ref. 81048).