Author: (Macleay, 1883)
FBname: Sooty grunter
Comments: More commonly found in larger flowing streams in both clear or turbid water.  Adults inhabit particularly the upper reaches of river systems over sandy or rocky bottoms with sparse aquatic plant growth.  Can tolerate acidic conditions (to a pH of 4.0) and temperatures between 12° and 34°C.  Feed on frogs, insects, worms, shrimps, algae, plant roots, and palm berries.  Some adults develop greatly oversized `blubber' lips.  Spawns in summer in response to rising water levels following monsoonal rains.  Group spawning may occur (Ref. 44894).  Spawns in summer when streams begin to rise.  Eggs are guarded and fanned by the male parent (Ref. 205).  A good angling species growing to a weight of 4 kilograms.