Heteropneustes sp.

INTRODUCTION:

Heteropneustes microps is a species of airsac catfish possibly endemic to Sri Lanka, though records from India have been made. This species grows to a total length of 15.0 cm (5.9 in). This fish is a component of local commercial fisheries, and is found in the aquarium trade.

Their bodies are elongated and compressed with greatly depressed heads. They have long air sacs that serve as lungs that extend from the gill chamber. Their dorsal fins are short and have no spine. Their pectoral fins have an associated venom gland, so the fish are considered dangerous.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• Size: Heteropneustes microps typically reach a maximum length of around 30 to 40 centimeters (12 to 16 inches), although larger specimens have been reported.

• Body Shape: They have a slender and elongated body, typical of catfish species. The body is cylindrical and tapers towards the tail.

• Coloration: The coloration of H. microps varies depending on its habitat, but it generally ranges from light brown to dark brown on the dorsal side, fading to a lighter coloration on the ventral side. They may also exhibit mottled or spotted patterns.

• Fins: They possess dorsal, pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins. The dorsal and pectoral fins are notable for their venomous spines located at the base, which are used for defense.

IDENTIFYING FEATURES:

• Venomous Spines: One of the most distinctive features of Heteropneustes microps is its venomous spines, particularly on the dorsal and pectoral fins. These spines contain glandular tissues capable of producing venom, which the fish can use for defense when threatened.

• Barbels: Like many catfish species, H. microps has sensory barbels around its mouth, which it uses to detect food and navigate its environment.

• Elongated Body: The slender and elongated body shape of H. microps distinguishes it from other fish species in its habitat.

MORPHOLOGY:

• Skeletal Structure: Heteropneustes microps possesses a bony skeleton typical of most fish species. Its skeletal structure provides support and protection for internal organs.

• Respiratory System: As with all catfish, H. microps has specialized respiratory organs called gills, which enable it to extract oxygen from water.

• Venom Glands: The venom glands located at the base of the dorsal and pectoral fins are a key morphological feature of H. microps, facilitating its defensive capabilities.

REPRODUCTION:

• Breeding Behavior: Heteropneustes microps typically reproduces through internal fertilization, with males fertilizing eggs produced by females.

• Spawning: Spawning behavior may vary depending on environmental conditions and habitat availability. They may spawn in shallow, vegetated areas or in deeper waters depending on their preferences.

• Egg Development:  After fertilization, the female lays eggs, which are then fertilized externally by the male. The eggs are often adhesive and may attach to substrates such as rocks or vegetation.

• Parental Care: There is limited information available regarding parental care in H. microps, but some catfish species exhibit parental behaviors such as guarding eggs or fry.

HABITAT:

• Freshwater Habitats: Heteropneustes microps is primarily found in freshwater habitats, including rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes.

• Range: Their distribution spans across South Asia, particularly in countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan.

• Habitat Preferences: They inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, from slow-moving rivers to stagnant ponds, often favoring areas with vegetation or debris for cover and feeding opportunities.

• Ecological Role: As omnivorous feeders, H. microps plays a role in controlling populations of aquatic invertebrates and algae, contributing to the overall balance of freshwater ecosystems.