This fish is endemic to Assam and is found in swamps and marshy ponds. It is both food and ornamental fish. Body snake like with head completely covered with scales. The colour of the body is of brownish intermixed with vertical orange stripes. It grows to a length of 16 inches. Air-breathing and can live in low oxygen waters. It is moderately aggressive and should not be kept with small and delicate fishes in the aquarium. The optimum temperature and pH are 22-28 °C and 6.0-7.5 respectively. They are highly predatory and eat fresh meaty items and can be fed on frozen meaty items in the aquarium. It does not accept dried meat. Breeds in swamps and marshy ponds. Captive breeding of this fish has been achieved.