A small-sized freshwater ornamental fish that grows to a maximum length of 150 mm. Colour of the body black excepting bright orange-red fins. They are mildly and fit fo aggressive to small fishes even of same species but fit for a community aquarium if size of the fishes are uniform. It also do not disturb the aquatic plants. The ideal temperature and pH conditions are 24-26 °C, 6.5-7.0 and hardness 2-15 dGH. Omnivore and eat vegetable matter, often browses on algae and soft leaves and readily eats commercial fish diets specially prepared for omnivorous fishes. Sexes can be identified during maturity. Breeding in aquarium has not been reported. The fish display brood care, the males guard and protect both the eggs and the fry. It takes a very long time for young fish to develop the deep velvety-black colour. Albino strains are also available which has white body and red tail. Life span 4-6 years.