Hasselt's Leaf Catfish (Silurichthys hasseltii)
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| A Hasselt's Leaf Catfish found in a shallow, fast-flowing forest stream. |
Family: Siluridae
Species Name: Silurichthys hasseltii
Common Name: Hasselt's Leaf Catfish
Presence in Singapore: Native
Habitat: Freshwater forest streams and pools
Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Red Data Book 3)
Common Name: Hasselt's Leaf Catfish
Presence in Singapore: Native
Habitat: Freshwater forest streams and pools
Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Red Data Book 3)
The Hasselt's Leaf Catfish is rarely seen in Singapore, where it is restricted to the Nee Soon Swamp Forest and its surroundings. It inhabits acidic forest streams and juveniles have been found in shallow forest pools. This nocturnal fish is highly photosensitive, making it tough to observe and photograph. This fish grows up to around 14cm in length and its tail is fused to the long anal fin, making it seem eel-like when it swims.
It is recognizable by a pair of long barbels, which it uses to forage at the surface for fallen insects and other prey. In the day, it hides among vegetation such as leaf litter and roots. In Singapore, it is critically endangered as it is threatened by habitat loss and the presence of invasive species.
It is recognizable by a pair of long barbels, which it uses to forage at the surface for fallen insects and other prey. In the day, it hides among vegetation such as leaf litter and roots. In Singapore, it is critically endangered as it is threatened by habitat loss and the presence of invasive species.
References
- Lim, K.P. and Ng, K.L. 1990. A Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Singapore. Singapore Science Centre.
- National Parks Board (NParks). Freshwater Fishes. Retrieved from https://www.nparks.gov.sg/nature/species-list/freshwater-fishes.
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