Fin's Fish Guide
Bubble nest builder
The Bubble nest builder (Trichopodus pectoralis) is a freshwater fish of the family Osphronemidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The snakeskin gourami is a labyrinth fish (Osphronemidae) from Southeast Asia. The species has a laterally compressed, grey-green body with a snakeskin-like pattern of oblique lines and thread-like elongated pelvic fins. It inhabits shallow, slow-flowing or standing waters with plenty of aquatic plants and flooded areas. Like other labyrinth fishes it can gulp air, so it tolerates oxygen-poor water. As an omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and plant matter. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bubble nest builder?
The Bubble nest builder has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Snakeskin-like pattern of streaks and thread-shaped pelvic fins; labyrinth fish that gulps air.
Where does the Bubble nest builder live?
The Bubble nest builder lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia; shallow, vegetated slow-flowing and standing waters.
How big does the Bubble nest builder get?
The Bubble nest builder grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Bubble nest builder dangerous to humans?
No, the Bubble nest builder is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bubble nest builder edible?
Yes, the Bubble nest builder is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trichopodus
More from the family Osphronemidae
Want the complete picture on the Bubble nest builder?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bubble nest builder is one of 12,519 species in the app.