Sunda Leaf Fish (Nandus nebulosus)

Sunda Leaf Fish (Nandus nebulosus)

A small Sunda Leaf Fish found in a murky catchment fed by a forest stream.

Family: Nandidae

Species Name: Nandus nebulosus
Common Name: Sunda Leaf Fish, Bornean Leaf Fish, Malayan Leaf Fish
Presence in Singapore: Native
Habitat: Freshwater forest streams, catchment, forest pools
Conservation Status: Endangered (Red Data Book 3)

The Sunda Leaf Fish is an uncommon, unique-looking species found more in the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It can be found in a variety of stagnant and slow-moving water bodies such as forest pools, streams and larger catchments. As its name suggests, its body shape and colours allow it to mimic a dead leaf, making it appropriately camouflaged for its habitats and that makes it tough to find. Growing up to 12cm in length, this predatory fish uses its disguise
to ambush smaller fish and invertebrates. 

(All photographs by: Jiayuan Lin)

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.