Indochina / Blancs' Striped Featherback. (Chitala blanci). Max length 120cm
Predatory.
This carnivorous member of the Notopteridae - Featherbacks or knifefishes family of fishes is distributed in the mainstream of the Mekong in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia and the lower course of some tributaries. The Indochina / Blancs' Striped Featherback is distinguishable by the presence of numerous small black spots (in the anterior half of the body), merging posteriorly into irregular oblique bands extending on the anal and caudal fins and differs from all other species in having a large round black spot at base of pectoral fin. Some specimens display a translucent rainbow colouration towards the rear of the fish.
The Indochina Featherback favours areas with fast flowing waters, deep pools or rapids and prefers habitats associated with rocky substrates.
The Indochina Featherback is active during twilight and night and feeds on fishes, crustaceans and insects. The Blancs Striped/Indochina Featherback has been bred for several years in Thailand and is present in various fisheries throughout Thailand.
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