Ambassidae
The Ambassidae, commonly known as the glassfishes or, less often, as the “Asian basses”, are a family of perciform fish that contains 15 genera and about 100 species. These fishes are mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific, with only two species found in the Atlantic.
Characteristics
Ambassidae are characterized by their generally small size, with most species ranging from 5 to 20 centimeters in length. They have laterally compressed bodies with a slightly rounded dorsal profile. They typically have a small mouth with fine teeth. Some species have a distinctive black spot at the base of the caudal fin. Some members, such as the species in the genus Chanda, have eyes situated on the top of their head, an adaptation for inhabiting muddy waters.
The coloration of Ambassidae is diverse and often includes patterns of spots, stripes, or bands. Many species exhibit a color change between juvenile and adult stages.
Habitat and Ecology
Glassfishes are primarily freshwater inhabitants and are often found in slow-moving or stagnant waters, such as swamps, marshes, and rice paddies. They are adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including brackish water. Some species, like the common glassfish (Parambassis ranga), are euryhaline and can live in both freshwater and saltwater.
Ambassidae are typically schooling fish and feed on a variety of small invertebrates and algae. They are important prey for larger fish and play a role in the food web of their respective habitats.
Genera
The following genera are recognized within the family Ambassidae:
- Ambassis
- Awaous
- Chanda
- Channa
- Ctenopoma
- Devario
- Glossogobius
- Gymnothorax
- Histiopterus
- Kuhlia
- Liopropoma
- Parambassis
- Pristolepis
- Sicyopterus
- Synchiropus