Origin
Native to the Chao Phraya River basin in central Thailand. Wild populations are now nearly extinct due to habitat destruction and overcollection in the past.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Bold coloration with an ink-black body and glowing red caudal fin make it a visual anchor in aquariums. Sleek, torpedo-shaped body and constant motion keep it engaging and active.

Purpose
Functions as a mid-to-bottom dwelling swimmer that adds motion and contrast. Its presence enhances aquascapes visually while occupying the lower water column.

Importance
A long-time favorite among freshwater hobbyists. Suitable for medium-sized tanks with structure. Encourages aquarists to consider territorial behavior and tank layout.

Included Resources
Needs fine gravel or sand substrate, driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to establish territory. Moderate flow and strong filtration. No special lighting or CO₂ required.

Best Use Cases
Ideal for semi-aggressive communities, Southeast Asian biotopes, and planted aquariums with plenty of cover. Can coexist with fast-moving fish and species that occupy different water levels.

Conservation Context
Listed as Critically Endangered in the wild by the IUCN. Today’s aquarium trade relies on captive breeding programs, which help protect wild remnants by reducing collection pressure.

Ideal Aquatic Animals
• Congo tetras, rainbowfish, barbs (not tiger barbs)
• Gouramis (except dwarf varieties)
• Larger danios
• Bottom dwellers like loaches (with caution)
• Avoid slow fish or those with flowing fins (bettas, guppies)

Region (A)
• Latitude: 14.2514° N
• Longitude: 100.4927° E
(Nakhon Sawan, Thailand – Chao Phraya watershed)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 15.0000° N
• Longitude: 99.8333° E
(Uthai Thani province, Thailand – foothill streams)