Anabantids, or Labyrinth fish inhabit densely vegetated and often oxygen depleted waters, made possible by a special breathing organ known as the labyrinth organ. The fish gulp airfrom the surface and absorb it through their labyrinth organ.
DISTRIBUTION: Anabantids come from Asia (particularly India and South East Asia), and Africa.
Many Anabantids also have 'feelers' adapted ventral fins, that allow them to feel their way in dark, plant-choked marsh. Breeding is often achieved via the construction of bubble nests, but there are also egg scattering and mouth brooding species.
RECOMMENDED STARTER SPECIES: Dwarf gourami, Siamese fighting fish