Image source: Jo's Animal Database
The hampala barb (Hampala macrolepidota) is a relatively large southeast Asian species of cyprinid from the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, as well as Peninsular Malaysia and the Greater Sundas (Borneo, Java and Sumatra). It prefers running rivers and streams, but can be seen in most freshwater habitats except torrents, small creeks and shallow swamps. This predatory species reaches up to 70 cm (2.3 ft) in length and it is common at half that size. Dorsal soft rays (total): 11; Anal soft rays: 8. Has a black bar between the dorsal and pelvic fins in adults; orange to red caudal fin with a black longitudinal, marginal stripe along each lobe; juveniles usually with an additional vertical bar on the caudal peduncle ; juveniles with black teardrop-shaped marking on cheek; barbel always longer than eye width. Eyes located in upper-side of head; with a vertical groove reaching behind mouth in isthmus; branchial membranes connected and free.
