Author: (Günther, 1864)
FBname: Barred grunter
Comments: Adults live in a variety of environment from still ponds and isolated rock pools to fast-flowing streams.  They are found in clear to turbid water over both rock and sand bottoms.  Adapt readily to a wide range of temperature (to 40°C), pH (4.5-8.6) and salinity (fresh to brackish) conditions.  Form loose aggregations (Ref. 44894).   Feed on insects, crustaceans and algae.  Breeding takes place between August and March; highly fecund females lay demersal eggs.  Sexual maturity is reached at a length of about 7.5-9.0 centimeters.  Breed readily in ponds and is a popular aquarium fish in Singapore; however, it is aggressive and unsuitable for community tanks (Ref. 44894).  Eggs are guarded and fanned by the male parent (Ref. 205).