Home › Actinopterygii › Telmatherinidae › Telmatherinid Fish (Marosatherina ladigesi)
SPECIES PROFILE
Telmatherinid Fish (Marosatherina ladigesi)
Marosatherina
IUCN STATUS
Endangered
CONSERVATION STATUS
Endangered
CLASS
Actinopterygii
GEOGRAPHICAL RANGE
Sulawesi, Indonesia
DIET
Omnivorous
HABITAT
Freshwater lakes, rivers
🔬 Classification
PHYLUM
Chordata
CLASS
Actinopterygii
ORDER
Atheriniformes
FAMILY
Telmatherinidae
GENUS
Marosatherina
📋 Description
SIZE
4-6 cm, ~0.01 kg
COLORATION
Iridescent blue-green
ADAPTATIONS
Sail-like fins; rapid breeding
🌿 Ecology
HABITAT
Freshwater lakes, rivers
DIET
Omnivorous
GEOGRAPHIC RANGE
Sulawesi, Indonesia
REPRODUCTION
Eggs scattered; rapid development
DIET DETAILS
Algae, small invertebrates
⚠️ Threats & Conservation
PRIMARY THREATS
Habitat loss, invasive species
💡 Interesting Facts
1
Endemic Jewels: Found only in Sulawesi's Malili Lakes, these fish display vibrant colors to attract mates, their sail-like fins flashing in clear waters. Their rapid breeding ensures survival in dynamic lake systems, but invasive species threaten their <10,000 population.
2
Lake Guardians: By grazing algae, they maintain water clarity in Malili Lakes, supporting aquatic plants and other fish. Conservation efforts in Sulawesi protect their habitat from mining, preserving a species key to Indonesia's freshwater biodiversity.
🔭 Sighting Guide
📍 BEST PLACES TO SIGHT
Malili Lakes, Sulawesi
Lore Lindu National Park
🗓️ BEST TIME TO SIGHT
April-October. Dry season improves water clarity for spotting fish in lakes.
🎯 SIGHTING TIPS
Snorkel with guides to observe colorful fish in clear lake waters.
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