Ceylon Combtail (Belontia Signata)
Ceylon Combtail is an endemic gourami found in Sri Lanka. It inhabits shallow, slow-flowing clear-water streams and can reach a maximum length of 18 centimetres. In natural habitat most species measure between 4 to 10 cm.
Ceylon Combtails primarily feed on insects, small fish and decayed material in freshwater.
The male builds a bubble nest under a leaf or on top of water for the female to lay eggs. Once the eggs are laid by the female, the male guards the eggs and prevents any fish from coming nearby including the female. The eggs hatch in 2 to 3 days.
Due to human activities, especially the construction of mini-hydro plants obstructing and damaging the habitat of the Ceylon Combtail, and the rampant deforestation of riverine forests, the Ceylon Combtail populations are declining and classified as vulnerable.
The male builds a bubble nest under a leaf or on top of water for the female to lay eggs. Once the eggs are laid by the female, the male guards the eggs and prevents any fish from coming nearby including the female. The eggs hatch in 2 to 3 days.
Due to human activities, especially the construction of mini-hydro plants obstructing and damaging the habitat of the Ceylon Combtail, and the rampant deforestation of riverine forests, the Ceylon Combtail populations are declining and classified as vulnerable.
