Malay combtail Care Guide

General Care

The Malay combtail is a beautiful fish that requires moderate care. Its resilience makes it relatively easier to keep, yet to thrive, it needs suitable conditions. Ensure the water temperature is maintained between 25°C and 28°C, and the pH levels should be kept between 6 and 7.5. The Malay combtail is a semi-aggressive, social fish, and should be kept in groups of at least 5 to help reduce stress and promote natural behavior.

Tank Setup

A minimum of 38 liters per fish is recommended to provide ample space for swimming and territorial behaviors. This species occupies all levels of the aquarium, including surface, mid-tank, and bottom layers, so it's important to ensure the entire tank is well structured. Include plants and decorations to provide hiding spaces and promote exploration. This species is known to exhibit highly territorial behavior, so provide plenty of space and hiding spots to minimize conflict and stress.

Feeding

Malay combtails are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They can be fed a combination of flakes, pellets, and various frozen or freeze-dried foods. Protein-rich live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and daphnia should be included to enhance their natural colors and energy levels. Vegetable matter and algae wafers are also beneficial to provide balanced nutrition. Stick-on tablets can be used for enrichment and interaction, while color enhancing foods help maintain their vibrant appearance.

Breeding

During breeding, the Malay combtail may become slightly more aggressive. Provide plenty of hiding spaces and monitor behavior closely to prevent stress or harm to other fish in the aquarium. Maintaining optimal tank conditions and varying the diet can encourage successful breeding.

Additional Considerations

Due to their moderate popularity and affordability, Malay combtails make an intriguing addition to any home aquarium. They require moderate maintenance, so be prepared to perform regular water changes and monitor water parameters closely. Despite some challenges, their striking appearance and interesting behavior make them a rewarding species for dedicated aquarists.