Channa kelaartii

This species is distinguished from other members of the Gachua group by the following characters: with pelvic fin; lateral head profle pointed anteriorly; pectoral fin of adults usually with 2-4 (rarely 5 or 6) brown concentric bands; lateral-line scales 38-43; scales in transverse line on body 5-½5+1+6½; circumpeduncular scales 24-28; D 31-35; A 19-23; vertebrae 39-42 (Ref. 124133).

Dorsal soft rays (total): 31 - 35; Analsoft rays: 19 - 23; Vertebrae: 39 - 42

Occurs mostly in lotic waters such as streams and rivers, also in lentic habitats such as pools and ditches in the lowlands. This species is usually associated with submerged roots, leaf debris and marginal vegetation during daytime, with adults solitary or occurring as pairs. At night, individuals can be more easily observed in open waters. It occurs even in highly modified habitats such as concretized drains and canals in urban areas. Highest elevation recorded for this species was ca. 700 m asl at Lunugala, but it has also been reported it from Diyatalawa, ca 1200 m asl. Reported from southern peninsular India from east-fowing drainages (Ref. 124133).