Chitala ornata

Chitala ornata, also known as the Clown Knifefish, is a tropical freshwater fish species native to Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is a popular species in the aquarium trade due to its unique shape and coloration.

Description

The Clown Knifefish is characterized by its elongated, knife-like body and its distinctive coloration. The body is primarily silver-gray, with a series of circular spots along the back and sides. The fish can reach lengths of up to 100 cm, although most specimens in the aquarium trade are much smaller.

Habitat and Distribution

Chitala ornata is found in the Mekong and Chao Phraya river basins in Southeast Asia. It prefers slow-moving or still waters with plenty of vegetation, such as swamps, marshes, and flooded forests.

Diet

The diet of the Clown Knifefish primarily consists of smaller fish and invertebrates. In the wild, it is a nocturnal predator, using its sensitive barbels to locate prey in the dark.

In the Aquarium

Chitala ornata is a popular species in the aquarium trade. It is prized for its unique appearance and its relatively peaceful temperament. However, due to its potential size and predatory nature, it requires a large tank and should not be kept with smaller fish.

Conservation Status

The Clown Knifefish is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many freshwater species, it is potentially threatened by habitat loss and pollution.