[3] This species has numerous irregular dark stripes running vertically across its body, with a horizontal lighter stripe separating them.

In males, the dorsal and annal fins are more pointed, and - in some populations - have bright iridescent blue spots.

This species, like many related anabantoids lays its approximately 1000 eggs into a bubble nest.

This anabantoid rarely appears in the aquarium hobby; when it does it is noted for being somewhat shy and retiring, but not particularly challenging to keep.

It prefers a pH of 6.5 - 7.5[3] and a temperature of 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F), along with a water hardness of 50 mgl.