Singapore Mono

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Restricted to the Indian Ocean coasts of southern India, Sri Lanka, and Singapore, in mangrove swamps and silt-bottomed estuaries.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Described by Kottelat in 1991. Features the characteristic diamond shape of the family, growing to a smaller size of 12 cm.

Social Behavior: Highly gregarious and schooling. Single specimens will experience severe stress and refuse to feed.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Bright silvery body with yellow highlights on the soft dorsal and anal fins. Sessi are indistinguishable.

Aquarium Setup: Tall aquariums with calcareous rocks and sand. Minimal decor is needed, prioritizing open swimming volume.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Readily accepts dry pellets, marine flakes, and regular offerings of frozen shrimp or plant-based foods.

Water Quality: High pH and stable brackish or marine conditions are essential for adult specimens. Ensure efficient mechanical filtration.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Ideal for school setups with archerfish and scats. Do not house with quiet, slow-moving reef or freshwater species.

Aquarium Breeding: Undocumented in home aquariums due to the need for specific coastal salinity cycles.

Risks and Diseases: Vulnerable to external protozoan parasites like Oodinium if kept in low salinity or poor water quality.