Commonly found in freshwater environments across Africa and Asia. A few identifying features include:
• Dark, shiny scales with a robust, slightly elongated body.
• Prominent spines on the dorsal fin (visible in the image).
• A labyrinth organ (not visible externally) allowing it to breathe atmospheric air.
• Typically dark or blackish in color, especially in wild or stressed conditions.
This species is hardy, can survive in low-oxygen water, and is known for its ability to “climb” out of water bodies in search of new habitats, hence the name.