Family: Notopteridae
Chitala ornata — a Notopteridae from Southeast Asia. Reaches 75–110 cm; keep at 24–30 °C.
Chitala ornata, a member of the family Notopteridae, comes from Southeast Asia, where it inhabits still and slow waters of lowland rivers. Predatory; swallows fish nearly its own size and carnivore; meaty foods, it grows to 75–110 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 24–30 °C range. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
A moderate-level species: predatory; swallows fish nearly its own size; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Set the heater to 24–30 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.
Expect 75–110 cm as an adult, living middle of the water column. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.
Carnivore; meaty foods. It forages naturally over sand and mud, so let some food reach the bottom.
Predatory; swallows fish nearly its own size; singles or small groups in very large tanks. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Its home waters are Southeast Asia — still and slow waters of lowland rivers, with still to gentle current.
A confirmed jumper: fit a tight lid and lower the waterline slightly.
In the aquarium: not bred in home aquaria. Hard to distinguish.