Malayan Combtail (Belontia hasselti) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 74-82°F. A long-bodied labyrinth fish with comb-like extensions on its fins. It is hardier than many gouramis but more aggressive, and adults can chase or nip smaller tankmates. Give it a long tank with cover and a tight lid with an air gap.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Belontia hasselti |
|---|---|
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Origin | Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo |
| Adult size | 6-8 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 74-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, nips fins and bullies small fish |
| Social behavior | Solitary or a pair in a large, well-planted tank |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore leaning carnivore: pellets, frozen foods, live foods, some vegetable matter |
| Typical lifespan | 5-8 years |
Quick tips
- Do not keep with tiny or long-finned fish.
- Leave an air gap under the lid; it breathes at the surface.
- Use plants and wood to break up sight lines; watch for squabbles with its own kind.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi