Malabar Hatchet Chela

About

The Malabar Hatchet Chela (Laubuka fasciata) is a slender little cyprinid from the fast-flowing hill streams of India, and one of those quietly rewarding fish that doesn't demand much but gives back a lot when kept properly. Its most obvious field mark is a dark longitudinal stripe running from the eye all the way back to the base of the tail, and it also sports notably long pelvic fins that extend past the vent. Details that help separate it from related species in a genus that took some time to sort out taxonomically. The name bounced between spellings for years before 'Laubuka' was confirmed as the original, and the group itself was carved out from a formerly sprawling Chela assemblage based on genetic work. In the aquarium this species is calm and non-confrontational, mixing well with other cyprinids, loaches, catfish, and characins of a similar disposition. Like most schooling fish it genuinely benefits from company. A group of eight or more brings out much more natural, confident behavior than a small handful. It shows up in the trade only occasionally and typically in modest quantities, which reflects both its restricted native range and the relatively low level of collection pressure on it. A workable choice for a beginner with a moderately sized tank who wants something a little less common.