[1] Little is known regarding phylogenetic interrelationships of the numerous populations of Bedotia of eastern Madagascar, and the genus is in need of systematic revision.

[3] These three clades of Bedotia are not readily separated based on coloration or pigmentation pattern.

[3] All Bedotia are sexually dimorphic, with males exhibiting larger adult size, enhanced coloration and pigmentation, as well as pronounced development of the unpaired fins.

[3] Bedotia is exclusively freshwater, and members are found in small to medium-sized forested rivers and streams, and to a lesser degree in swamps and marshes, along the eastern slope of Madagascar.

[2] The genus is named after the Swiss zoologist Maurice Bedot (1859-1927) who was director of the Muséum d'histoire naturelle de Genève where the type of B. madagascarensis was lodged and who was editor of Revue suisse de Zoologie in which Regan's description was published in 1903.