Burmese Kingfish

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Semiplotus modestus

Also known as: Modest Semiplotus

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Description

Semiplotus modestus, commonly known as the Burmese Kingfish, is a species of cyprinid fish native to freshwater systems of Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its deep, compressed body and distinctive coloration. This species is part of the genus Semiplotus, which is known for its unique morphological features among cyprinids.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape: compressed
Coloration: Adults typically exhibit a silvery-grey to olive-brown body, often with a darker dorsal region fading to a lighter ventral side. Fins are generally dusky or translucent. Juveniles may show faint vertical banding or spots that fade with age. The operculum can have a metallic sheen.
Scale type: cycloid
Mouth position: subterminal
Distinctive features: Deep, laterally compressed body, Prominent, often slightly upturned snout, Large, cycloid scales, Absence of barbels, Dorsal fin origin anterior to pelvic fin origin, A distinct, often dark, spot at the base of the caudal fin in some individuals or life stages.
Dorsal fin: Single, tall dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched rays and 8-9 branched rays. The anterior rays are typically longer, giving the fin a somewhat triangular shape.
Tail fin: Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.
Pectoral fin: Relatively short and rounded pectoral fins, typically with 15-17 rays.
Distinctive fins: Pelvic fins are abdominal, originating slightly behind the pectoral fin base. Anal fin is short with 3 unbranched and 5 branched rays.

Identification Tips

Body Shape

Look for a very deep and laterally compressed body, which is a key characteristic of the genus Semiplotus.

Snout

Observe the snout, which is often prominent and slightly upturned, contributing to its distinctive head profile.

Barbels

Confirm the absence of barbels around the mouth, a distinguishing feature from many other cyprinids.

Dorsal Fin

Note the tall, triangular dorsal fin with its origin well in front of the pelvic fins.

Caudal Fin

Identify the deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Habitat

Water type: freshwater
Depth: Typically found in shallow to moderate depths of rivers and larger streams, often near banks or submerged structures.
Environment: Inhabits clear to slightly turbid, fast-flowing rivers and larger streams with rocky or gravelly substrates. Prefers areas with good oxygenation and often associated with deeper pools or stretches with moderate current. During spawning, they may move into flooded areas or tributaries.
Geographic range: Native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in the Irrawaddy River basin in Myanmar (Burma), and potentially extending into adjacent river systems in Thailand and India (e.g., Chindwin River, Brahmaputra basin).

Aquarium Information

Care level: expert
Temperament: peaceful
Diet: omnivore
Minimum tank size: 200 gallons
Temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)
pH level: 6.5-7.5
Hardness: 5-15 dGH
Compatibility: Generally peaceful with similarly sized, non-aggressive species. Avoid very small or overly boisterous tankmates. Best kept in a species-specific tank or a very large community setup with other large, calm cyprinids or catfishes.
Special requirements: Requires a very large aquarium with excellent filtration and strong water flow. Substrate should be fine sand or smooth gravel. Provide ample open swimming space, along with some large, smooth rocks and driftwood for cover. Sensitive to poor water quality, so regular large water changes are essential. Not commonly available in the aquarium trade due to its size and specific needs.

Wild Information

Conservation status: least concern
Seasonality: Spawning typically occurs during the monsoon season when water levels rise and currents are strong. Fishing activity may increase during this period.
Market price: N/A (primarily local subsistence/artisanal fishing)
Commercial importance: low
Taste: Mild, somewhat earthy
Texture: Firm, flaky
Cooking methods: Grilled, Fried, Steamed, Curried
Nutritional value: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, typical of freshwater fish.

Key Facts

Unique Cyprinidinteresting

The genus Semiplotus is considered somewhat distinct within the Cyprinidae family due to its deep body and lack of barbels, setting it apart from many other 'carp' relatives.

River Dwellerbehavior

Burmese Kingfish are primarily inhabitants of large river systems, relying on strong currents and well-oxygenated water for their survival.

Dietary Flexibilitybehavior

As omnivores, they consume a varied diet of plant matter, detritus, and small invertebrates, contributing to nutrient cycling in their ecosystem.

Safety Information

Safe

Safety level: safe
Venomous: No
Edibility: edible
Handling notes: No specific handling precautions beyond standard fish handling. Avoid dropping or excessive squeezing. Its large scales can be somewhat abrasive, but pose no significant threat.

Similar Species

Semiplotus cirrhosus

S. cirrhosus typically possesses a pair of small maxillary barbels, which are absent in S. modestus. There can also be subtle differences in body depth to length ratio and fin ray counts, requiring careful examination.

Semiplotus dayi

S. dayi is generally described as having a more elongated body compared to the deeper-bodied S. modestus. Fin ray counts and specific head morphology can also differ, but these require detailed ichthyological analysis.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Semiplotus
Species: modestus

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