Once again we managed to import a Macropodus form from Vietnam which cannot be clearly assigned. Unfortunately nothing can be found out about the original location. Some years ago we had been able to import similar animals, also from Vietnam, but they had a strong bronze shine on their body, which is missing in the current imports. The animals imported in 2015 can be seen here: https://www.aquariumglaser.de/en/fish-archives/macropodus_spechti_en/
In contrast to “normal” Macropodus spechti, the current import animals are lighter in colour, have longer ventral fins and a rather yellow (instead of red) iris. Since the black paradise fish prefer running water, it could be a specially adapted form living in brooks. We are very curious to see what the offspring of these unusual black paradise fish will look like. They should definitely be kept, cared for and bred separate from other populations of Macropodus spechti, because it is by no means out of the question that they represent another species.
For our customers: the animals have code 425604 on our stocklist. Please note that we only supply wholesalers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
