Zono  (Bedotia geayi)

Description

Bedotia geayi is one of a number of small, attractively coloured fish species, commonly called zono or zona, which inhabit Madagascan waterways (1). This species has a yellowish body with a distinct dark line running along the flanks, ending at the base of the tail with a dark blotch. The sexes can be distinguished by the striking red spot that develops on the male’s chin during the breeding season, as well as by the colour of the fins. The male’s dorsal fin and anal fin are clear grey with red margins and the tail fin is grey with black margins; in contrast, the female’s fins are translucent, except for the tail fin which becomes yellow towards the base (2). As a point of interest, a relative of this species, Bedotia madagascariensis is commonly sold in the aquarium trade under the name Bedotia geayi, but differs significantly from this species in the colouration of its fins (2).

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