Time to read..

Now, it's time to read.. I got a book to read this week and a few papers from various journals download from the web to understand..

Nak cerita sket pasal buku yg aku baca tuu.. The title is "Biogeography - A study of plants in the Ecosphere" by the late Joy Tivy. Joy Tivy was born in 1924 in Ireland and she went to Trinity College Dublin to study geography with botany and geology. She was a geographer more than a biologist. She taught at University of Glasgow before she past away in 1995. The obituary of hey was writen by Derek Diamond and published in The Geographical Journal (Vol. 161, No. 3; Nov., 1995, pp. 355-356). The book of hers that I am currently reading, is probably her first. This book is meant for general readers in "biogeography" but biologists may find this book a bit 'flowery'! However, it is very interesting to read 'thought' on biogeography from the geographer, like Dr. Tivy. I bought this book from carboot sales for 50pence. For something which was published in 1971, I don't mind at all! The 3rd edition of the book is still available via Amazon.com/Amazon.co.uk!

Reading the words in the book, line by line.., I feel like 'not' reading an academic, scientific books at all.. To many, Geography is NOT science. If one really look deeper, deep enough to the bottom, the subject IS science! Or at least large part of Geography is science to me.. Inside Geography one may find geology, geomorphology, climatology, and others.. All of these are very much 'science' to me!

Well, I enjoy reading it.. It's not too 'heavy' for me to understand the topics in the book, probably because I'm a biologist! One thing I would like to share here is how she define 'species' that many biologist especially lecturer including myself sometimes 'miss' to say in the class.. But, in my next lecture, I am sure my students can easily understand what 'species' mean.. I am glad reading this book. I hope to finish it soon..

Can we hear Mother Nature cry?

This is another article I read and I feel really sad about what's going on right now! Everywhere, one by one, the pristine jungle gone, clear stream turned turbid and what's there, vanished before we know what they were! SAD, really..

It's always "... clean up later" attitude that soon, not much is left for the next generation to enjoy.. We have rich flora and fauna, but we just don't know or not doing good enough to turn these natural resources into mony making industry.

I trully believe, if we saeriously want to promote nature-related tourisms, studies on natural history (read: flora and fauna) should be given priority. Such forest hosted plenty of natural resources that can be used to generate profit, but 'short-termed gain-thinker' had caused permenant losses of the great forest.

It's is so unfortunate that what can be enjoyed by many generation to comes, gone all at once..

Too bad..

To Hymier K.,
My friend, all the best to you.. What you did is novel.. Keep it up.. I'll join you, later.

UFOs are here!!!

I read about invasive species in the news recently (NST, 6 Oct 2008 - see picture below). Interestingly, only NOW people are aware about the danger this unwanted foreign organisms (UFOs) in our waters. Peacock bass has been in the country for many, many years. It was regarded as an excellent sport fish for it fighting ability when hooked but the damage it could has to the ecosystem is huge as it is one of the ferocious killing machine in our waters.

There are at least six species of peacock bass known to date. The biggest is probably Cichla temensis (speckled peacock bass, also known as three-barred peacock bass while spawning) that can grew up to 90cm long. One of the most popular species in ornamental fish trade is Cichla ocellaris (butterfly peacock bass). All adult male of peacock bass has a pronounced hump on their forehead. All species has a small black spot surrounded by a white circle on caudal fin that the name 'peacock' was adopted to the species.

I totally agree with.. "DHI Water and Environment Sdn Bhd environmental consultant Mohd Zambri Mohd Akhir is particularly concerned about the threat posed by the peacock bass."

It is not surprised to know ""Now you can find these fish in Chenderoh, the most downstream dam in Perak. If it enters the other river systems in Malaysia that has unique local species, it is going to cause irreversible damage," warned Zambri."

I believed Zambri (a friend of mine, btw) must has the proof as he is an avid angler, himself!

Apart from this species, our water has been invaded by more than 20 fish species of which its impact on local, native species is unknown!



To relevant authorities, it's not too late to control the invasion if YOU ACT NOW!!

To Zambri, I say "Good observation, bro!"

Uhh.. Need to give more umphhh here..

Stay with me.. More will be coming your way..

I try to put up more things here.. I promise..

The next one will be the pics of the guys doing works during the megasampling 0808!!

Stay...

Freshwater Fish Fauna of Malaysia - Introduction

This will be the 'introduction' to the page on freshwater fish fauna of Malaysia. I purposely choose to do a write up on freshwater fishes of Malaysia since we don't have one! So, this will cover fishes that inhabits inland water of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. It will take some times to complete but, what the heck.. I just do it slowly, at my own time.. Well, it is not going to be 'converted' to book but the possibility is there. From my pers. comm. with a few friends, soon there will be a 'great big book' on Freshwater Fishes of Southeast Asia! However, this will benefit anyone who is interested in fish fauna inhabits inland and to some extend, estuaries of Malaysia. Since it is on Malaysia, I shall includes material found in Peninsular Malaysia (Note. Not Malay Peninsular).

Since this will be something like 'picture-guided' page, entry will base on species-by-species. Surely, whatever picture I have, I try to put it here. Don't expect it to be the best, but I do hope it will help.. I'll try to give references where possible in pdf for anyone interested to 'explore' more. Else, I shall cited a few publications that are relevant.

Lim & Tan (2002) defining freshwater fish as "fish species that spend their adult lives and breed in freshwater beyond tidal influence". I'll used this definition throughout my entry. Nomenclature follows Lim & Tan (2002), except for the genus Systomus which replaces Puntius (after Rainboth, 1996: 103).

Freshwater Fish Fauna of Malaysia - Introduction

This will be the 'introduction' to the page on freshwater fish fauna of Malaysia. I purposely choose to do a write up on freshwater fishes of Malaysia since we don't have one! So, this will cover fishes that inhabits inland water of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. It will take some times to complete but, what the heck.. I just do it slowly, at my own time.. Well, it is not going to be 'converted' to book but the possibility is there. From my pers. comm. with a few friends, soon there will be a 'great big book' on Freshwater Fishes of Southeast Asia! However, this will benefit anyone who is interested in fish fauna inhabits inland and to some extend, estuaries of Malaysia. Since it is on Malaysia, I shall includes material found in Peninsular Malaysia (Note. Not Malay Peninsular).

Since this will be something like 'picture-guided' page, entry will base on species-by-species. Surely, whatever picture I have, I try to put it here. Don't expect it to be the best, but I do hope it will help.. I'll try to give references where possible in pdf for anyone interested to 'explore' more. Else, I shall cited a few publications that are relevant.

Lim & Tan (2002) defining freshwater fish as "fish species that spend their adult lives and breed in freshwater beyond tidal influence". I'll used this definition throughout my entry. Nomenclature follows Lim & Tan (2002), except for the genus Systomus which replaces Puntius (after Rainboth, 1996: 103).

Freshwater Fish Fauna of Malaysia - Introduction

This will be the 'introduction' to the page on freshwater fish fauna of Malaysia. I purposely choose to do a write up on freshwater fishes of Malaysia since we don't have one! So, this will cover fishes that inhabits inland water of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. It will take some times to complete but, what the heck.. I just do it slowly, at my own time.. Well, it is not going to be 'converted' to book but the possibility is there. From my pers. comm. with a few friends, soon there will be a 'great big book' on Freshwater Fishes of Southeast Asia! However, this will benefit anyone who is interested in fish fauna inhabits inland and to some extend, estuaries of Malaysia. Since it is on Malaysia, I shall includes material found in Peninsular Malaysia (Note. Not Malay Peninsular).

Since this will be something like 'picture-guided' page, entry will base on species-by-species. Surely, whatever picture I have, I try to put it here. Don't expect it to be the best, but I do hope it will help.. I'll try to give references where possible in pdf for anyone interested to 'explore' more. Else, I shall cited a few publications that are relevant.

Lim & Tan (2002) defining freshwater fish as "fish species that spend their adult lives and breed in freshwater beyond tidal influence". I'll used this definition throughout my entry. Nomenclature follows Lim & Tan (2002), except for the genus Systomus which replaces Puntius (after Rainboth, 1996: 103).

Finally... It's done...!!!

I am glad.. Finally, what I'd planned for a month or so, was completed. I am so happy but tired at the same time.. The megasampling took place with the help of so many people..
I thank everyone who help me in many, many ways.. (see ameyahmad Back in Dundee, Sept 13 2009)

Next year will be another round! See ye..

The trip is on..

YES..!!! I got my team.. Not full but enough to make the trip round Malaya.. I got Usop onboard, Hairol and Amzar too.. Amzar may be have to parted early but I guess I might change the plan a bit so that he could be around for his sister wedding..
I'm not sure about Min but Nadia willing to come.. May be Natrah can join for the northern trip.. Hohoho.. I can't wait to hit the road..

Calling to join the second team!!

Anyone...!!! I'm looking for the second team.. To those wishes to be in the second team and join me on the road as I pass by or about to reach your area or where we could meet, please leave your email and telephone number (mobile, please!) in 'comment' or email me at ameyahmad@gmail.com
I'll contact you to join me for a shorter trip - probably visiting 2, 3 sites like that.. Just to give you some idea how tough sampling can be and some exosure that may be useful for you in the future.. Don't worry about food and accomodation, it's free.. But if you want to pay for your food, and me too.., that's great.. Hahaha..
Anyone..!!!!

Mega sampling 0808

So far.., so good...
Hairol and Usop; my former students are already agree to follow.. Great!! I wish Feh and Amzar to be in the team.. Duke may not be possible to follow but if he could, it would be really great.. I had them with me at Bukit Bauk, then Sg. Galas, sampling Amzar.. It's really great!! Can't wait to wade the stream again with them..
IF Syed and Along can come, that will be a bonus.. I've yet to ask Along.. Not expecting him to follow because he might be busy with his gerai.. I'll call Feh amd Amzar later.. Amzar got something that I aware but Feh yet to hear from him..
Just in case, my second team is ready to kick off the trip.. May be take the second team partially to help with non-muscle work.. Hehe.. So, Nadia, Cik Min, Pae, Shima and Natrah.., get ready.. When I pass by your area, I'll give you a call..
Orait..

The Mega Field Works - Part 1 2008

I warn ye.. Don't open it but IF you really want to see it.. Go ahead..

My sampling program (FYI..)

Tentative sampling program

Date : August 1 2008 – August 21, 2008

The journey home
19 July 08:10hrs Depart to Amsterdam; 12:00hrs Depart to Malaysia via Amsterdam
20 July 06:05hrs Arrive at KLIA; 11:45hrs Depart to Kuala Terengganu; 12:35hrs Arrive at Kuala Terengganu

The preperation begins
21 July 10:00hrs Meeting with Head of Department, Biology. To be confirmed. 12:00hrs Meeting with helpers At General Bio. Lab.
22 – 23 July 09:00 – 17:00hrs Preperation: Gather all equipment and materials needed for sampling - formalin and ethanol(?) - to buy other consumables

The (mega)field works begin
24 July 10:00hrs Depart from UMT, Kuala Terengganu; 16:30hrs Arrive at Baling, Kedah - overnight; 17:30hrs Site survey(?)
25 July 09:00hrs 1. Sampling Sg. Nau, Baling - overnight
26 July 09:00hrs Depart to Perlis; 16:00hrs Arrive at Perlis State Park - overnight; 16:30hrs Site survey(?)
27 July 10:00hrs 2. Sampling stream at Wang Mu; 14:00hrs 3. Sampling stream at Wang Klian - overnight
28 July 09:30hrs Depart to Kuala Nerang, Kedah; 12:30hrs Arrive at Kuala Nerang; 14:00hrs 4. Sampling Puncak Janing; 18:00hrs Depart to Penang - overnight; 22:00hrs Arrive at Penang
29 July 09:00hrs Visit Univ. Science Malaysia (USM)– to examine fish collection at School of Biological Sciences, USM; 16:00hrs Depart to Kulim, Kedah - overnight
30 July 10:00hrs 5. Sampling Bukit Hijau/Sedim - Overnight
31 July 09:00hrs Depart to Batu Kurau, Perak; 12:00hrs Arrive at Batu Kurau, Perak; 14:00hrs 6. Sampling Sg. Anak Kurau - Overnight
1 Aug 09:00hrs Depart to Ulu Kenas, Kuala Kangsar, Perak; 12:00hrs Arrive at Kuala Kangsar; 14:00hrs 7. Sampling Sg. Kenas - overnight
2 Aug 09:00hrs 8. Sampling Sg. Kota Air Tampan - overnight
3 Aug 09:00hrs Depart to Kuala Woh, Tapah; 14:00hrs Arrive at Kuala Woh, Tapah; 15:00hrs 9. Sampling at Kuala Woh - overnight
4 Aug 09:00hrs Depart to Bangi, Selangor; 13:00hrs Arrive at UKM, Bangi; 14:00hrs Visit Univ. Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)– to examine fish collection at Faculty of Sciences and Technology, UKM. - overnight
5 Aug 09:30 - 17:00hrs– to examine fish collection at Faculty of Sciences and Technology, UKM. - overnight
6 Aug 09:00hrs 10. Sampling at Sg. Congkak, Ulu Langat, Selangor - overnight
7 Aug 09:00hrs 11. Sampling at Ulu Gombak - overnight
8 Aug 09:00hrs 12. Sampling at Sg. Tua, Selayang; 16:00hrs Depart to Rembau, Negeri Sembilan; 20:00hrs Arrive at Rembau, Negeri Sembilan - overnight
9 Aug 09:30hrs 13. Sampling Ulu Sepri, Rembau - overnight
10 Aug 09:00hrs Depart to Ulu Bendul, Kuala Pilah; 14. Sampling at Ulu Bendul - overnight
11 Aug 09:30hrs Depart to Serting; 15. Sampling at Serting - overnight
12 Aug 09:30hrs Depart to Segamat, Johor; 13:00hrs Arrive at G. Ledang; 14:00hrs 16. Sampling at G. Ledang - overnight
13 Aug 09:00hrs 17. Sampling at Sg. Bantang - overnight
14 Aug 09:30hrs Depart to Kluang, Johor; 14:00hrs Arrive at Kluang; 18. Sampling G. Berlumut - overnight
15 Aug 10:00hrs ... cont. 18. 14:00hrs Depart to Maran, Pahang; 22:00hrs Arrive at Maran, Pahang - overnight
16 Aug 09:30hrs 19. Sampling at Belimbing, Maran - overnight
17 Aug 09:30hrs Depart to Lanchang, Pahang; 13:30hrs Arrive at Lanchang, Pahang; 14:00hrs Visit Institute for Biodiversity, DWNP – to examine fish collection at IKB, DWNP. - overnight
18 Aug 09:00hrs 20. Sampling at Lanchang, Pahang - overnight; 16:00hrs Depart to Kuantan, Pahang; 20:00hrs Arrive at Kuantan, Pahang - overnight
19 Aug 09:30hrs 21. Sampling at Berkelah - overnight
20 Aug 09:00hrs Depart to Dungun, Terengganu; 13:00hrs Arrive at Dungun, Terengganu; 14:00hrs 22. Sampling at Besul, Dungun - overnight
21 Aug 09:00hrs Depart to Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu; 14:00hrs Arrive at Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
[end of part 1]

Lab works
22–23 Aug Specimen prep. and further identification, (dead fish) photo session

The (not-so-mega)field works begin
24 Aug 10:00hrs Depart to Kuala Berang, Terengganu; 12:00hrs Arrive at Kuala Berang, Terengganu; 13:00hrs 23. Sampling Sg. Peres, Sekayu - overnight
25 Aug 09:30hrs 24. Sampling Sg. Por, Sekayu - overnight
26 Aug 09:30hrs 25. Sampling Lata Payong, Setiu; 16:00hrs Depart to Jertih, Terengganu - overnight
27 Aug 09:30hrs 26. Sampling at Lata Tembakah, Terengganu; 16:00hrs Depart to Machang, Kelantan - overnight
28 Aug 09:30hrs 27. Sampling at Bukit Bakar, Kelantan; 14:00hrs Depart to Chiku, Kelantan - overnight
29 Aug 09:30hrs 28. Sampling at Chiku; 16:00hrs Depart to Tanah Merah, Kelantan - overnight
30 Aug 09:30hrs 29. Sampling at Sg. Buluh - overnight
31 Aug 09:30hrs 30. Sampling at Sg. Lanas; 16:00hrs Depart ti Kuala Terengganu
[end of part 2]
[to be continue in 2009!! Hehe..]

Lab works
1–9 Sept 09:00-17:30hrs Specimen prep. and further identification, (dead fish) photo session

The return trip
10 Sept 16:15hrs Depart to KLIA
17:10hrs Arrive at KLIA
23:55hrs Depart to Amsterdam
11 Sept 06:35hrs Arrive at Amsterdam
14:10hrs Depart to Edinburgh
Arrive at Edinburgh
Depart to Dundee
Arrive at Dundee

Sampling P. Malaysia - August 2008

Well.. Works are under progress to sample fish from headwater streams in Peninsular Malaysia this coming August. This will be the first of two samplings that I have to conduct to get data for my PhD. After spending about 2 months analysing my previous data on fish inhabiting the headwater streams of Peninsular Malaysia (more will be done, later..), the opportunity to re-sample some of the streams and surveying a few new streams will generate more information on fish fauna in this great ecosystem.

Headwater ecosystem is rather unique. This ecosystem is constantly under great pressure of high water velocity and fast flowing current. Its substrate consists of rocks of many different sizes and sands. The physical habitat consists of pools including plunge pools of a few meters deep, rapids and riffles alternating the pools along the longitudinal section at the lower altitude. Along the stream, anthropogenic materials creating various structure for fish to hide, or predator may utilised it for hunting or ambushing prey.

Fishes inhabiting the headwater streams comes in various colour, shape and sizes. They utilised quite a different microhabitat such as rocky bottom, leaf piles, or just swim freely in open water. To date, only a handfull of species that probably never been reported elsewhere in the world utilised the headwater stream of Peninsular Malaysia as their habitat. The total number of freshwater fishes utilised the headwater ecosystem is not known. Well.. Some species may be found in lower part of the streams or in other totally different habitats such as swamps. "Obligate' species of headwater streams fish fauna may be not as rich as species recorded in swamps but the special adaptation to live in this 'harsh' habitat resulted several species possesses several unique characteristics such as streamline, flat-head, and elongated body.

From the previous collections, there are about 120 species (more or less..) but based on the preliminary analyses, the estimated number is higher! So, more sampling is needed until the graph of species-area curve reach asymptote. Well.. It won't be easy but more samplings at more sites and with the used of correct tools, we might be able to estimate the number of fish species living in this area. So, my job is to collect as many fish as I can withing 50m streach of stream for 3-5 replicates. I hope I am able to do this with the help of several friends.

WISH ME LUCK... <;)}}}<

PRIMER 5

YES!!!! At last.. I manage to analyse my data using PRIMER5.. I spent almost 2 weeks playing with PRIMER5.. Yesterday, I manage to get it 'almost' right!! Not that easy but not million miles different.. Before this, I got busy with EstimateS.. The output from EstimateS are really interesting.. Form preliminary analysis using EstimateS, I discuss with my supevisor.. She suggest I concentrate on something I never thought would be so interesting! She want me to analyse further the data of fish inhabiting modified and natural pools.. Well, I got it done yesterday (YES! I am..) but I need to do it again. This time (a bit later, I guess..) to make it well structured. Before this, I try to get familiar with the data and analyses. Now, 'playing' time was over, now get down to serious business.. I am really excited to get the output ready for my next meeting with my supervisor.. It will take place on Thursday or may be Friday..
Wish me luck..

Systomus lateristriga (Valenciennes)

Family Cyprinidae
[Malay: ikan bagoh; English: t-barb]


Systomus lateristriga. Temenggor, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

Systomus lateristriga. Belimbing, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia

Tweedie (1961) reported that there were at least six distinct forms of S. lateristriga found throughout Peninsular Malaysia. The specimen from Temenggor has posterior vertical bar well developed, of which the base is broad spanning almost the entire dorsal fin base. This form very much similar to Pahang and Kelantan form (Tweedie, 1961: 180, Plate 22, Figure 5, 6) and almost reaching pelvic fins base similar to Johor form (Tweedie, 1961: 178, Plate 22, Figure 1, 2). The posterior horizontal bar is well developed and relatively broad, but does not connected to posterior vertical bar. Supraanal spot is not clearly visible, and relatively small (probably due to stress). The specimen from Belimbing, Maran, Pahang relatively similar to specimen from Temenggor, Perak. The posterior horizontal bar of this recently preserved specimen broder than the previous specimen. Interestingly, according to Tweedie (1961) the upper Perak and Pahang does not seem to belong to the same group!
Systomus lateristriga. Menderu, Terenggau, Peninsular Malaysia

Systomus lateristriga. Menderu, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

The bottom two pictures were the same specimen collected from Air Menderu, Kerteh, Terengganu. In the live specimen, anterior and posterior vertical bar is not connected as the second (anterior) horizontal bar of this specimen is 'missing'. The posterior vertical bar is prominent, showing the based covering almost entire dorsal fin based and it extending almost reaching the pelvic fins. The posterior horizontal bar seems here does not connecting to the posterior vertical bar. Supraanal spot was clearly visible in life specimen but almost entirely vanished in preserved specimen. However, I can't compare the small specimen since I don't have any.
This fish is suitable for large aquarium display and looking great in school. However, care should be taken as it is easily die if dissolved oxygen is lacking. Female usually larger but (presumably) male is more attractive with bright yellow and black marking on its body.

Systomus lateristriga (Valenciennes)

Family Cyprinidae
[Malay: ikan bagoh; English: t-barb]


Systomus lateristriga. Temenggor, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

Systomus lateristriga. Belimbing, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia

Tweedie (1961) reported that there were at least six distinct forms of S. lateristriga found throughout Peninsular Malaysia. The specimen from Temenggor has posterior vertical bar well developed, of which the base is broad spanning almost the entire dorsal fin base. This form very much similar to Pahang and Kelantan form (Tweedie, 1961: 180, Plate 22, Figure 5, 6) and almost reaching pelvic fins base similar to Johor form (Tweedie, 1961: 178, Plate 22, Figure 1, 2). The posterior horizontal bar is well developed and relatively broad, but does not connected to posterior vertical bar. Supraanal spot is not clearly visible, and relatively small (probably due to stress). The specimen from Belimbing, Maran, Pahang relatively similar to specimen from Temenggor, Perak. The posterior horizontal bar of this recently preserved specimen broder than the previous specimen. Interestingly, according to Tweedie (1961) the upper Perak and Pahang does not seem to belong to the same group!
Systomus lateristriga. Menderu, Terenggau, Peninsular Malaysia

Systomus lateristriga. Menderu, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

The bottom two pictures were the same specimen collected from Air Menderu, Kerteh, Terengganu. In the live specimen, anterior and posterior vertical bar is not connected as the second (anterior) horizontal bar of this specimen is 'missing'. The posterior vertical bar is prominent, showing the based covering almost entire dorsal fin based and it extending almost reaching the pelvic fins. The posterior horizontal bar seems here does not connecting to the posterior vertical bar. Supraanal spot was clearly visible in life specimen but almost entirely vanished in preserved specimen. However, I can't compare the small specimen since I don't have any.
This fish is suitable for large aquarium display and looking great in school. However, care should be taken as it is easily die if dissolved oxygen is lacking. Female usually larger but (presumably) male is more attractive with bright yellow and black marking on its body.

Systomus lateristriga (Valenciennes)

Family Cyprinidae
[Malay: ikan bagoh; English: t-barb]


Systomus lateristriga. Temenggor, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

Systomus lateristriga. Belimbing, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia

Tweedie (1961) reported that there were at least six distinct forms of S. lateristriga found throughout Peninsular Malaysia. The specimen from Temenggor has posterior vertical bar well developed, of which the base is broad spanning almost the entire dorsal fin base. This form very much similar to Pahang and Kelantan form (Tweedie, 1961: 180, Plate 22, Figure 5, 6) and almost reaching pelvic fins base similar to Johor form (Tweedie, 1961: 178, Plate 22, Figure 1, 2). The posterior horizontal bar is well developed and relatively broad, but does not connected to posterior vertical bar. Supraanal spot is not clearly visible, and relatively small (probably due to stress). The specimen from Belimbing, Maran, Pahang relatively similar to specimen from Temenggor, Perak. The posterior horizontal bar of this recently preserved specimen broder than the previous specimen. Interestingly, according to Tweedie (1961) the upper Perak and Pahang does not seem to belong to the same group!
Systomus lateristriga. Menderu, Terenggau, Peninsular Malaysia

Systomus lateristriga. Menderu, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

The bottom two pictures were the same specimen collected from Air Menderu, Kerteh, Terengganu. In the live specimen, anterior and posterior vertical bar is not connected as the second (anterior) horizontal bar of this specimen is 'missing'. The posterior vertical bar is prominent, showing the based covering almost entire dorsal fin based and it extending almost reaching the pelvic fins. The posterior horizontal bar seems here does not connecting to the posterior vertical bar. Supraanal spot was clearly visible in life specimen but almost entirely vanished in preserved specimen. However, I can't compare the small specimen since I don't have any.
This fish is suitable for large aquarium display and looking great in school. However, care should be taken as it is easily die if dissolved oxygen is lacking. Female usually larger but (presumably) male is more attractive with bright yellow and black marking on its body.

Freshwater Fishes of Malaysia

The first of what is going to be the most ambitious entry that I am doing (or going to do..) for the next (days, months, years..! I don't know..) is uploaded.. The first features fish was a common fish called 'tebal sisik' or 'ikan sisik' in Malay. Check it out..

Freshwater Fishes of Malaysia

The first of what is going to be the most ambitious entry that I am doing (or going to do..) for the next (days, months, years..! I don't know..) is uploaded.. The first features fish was a common fish called 'tebal sisik' or 'ikan sisik' in Malay. Check it out..

Freshwater Fishes of Malaysia

The first of what is going to be the most ambitious entry that I am doing (or going to do..) for the next (days, months, years..! I don't know..) is uploaded.. The first features fish was a common fish called 'tebal sisik' or 'ikan sisik' in Malay. Check it out..

I have a dream...

It is a dream actually.. I want to set up a 'page' on Malaysian biodiversity. For a start, I guess I should start with fauna that is closed to me - fish. To be precised, freshwater fishes.. I guess that is the best to start with..
Then, may be I should put up a note on dragonfly followed by butterfly, frogs, toads, lizards, snakes, crocs or the herpetofauna and then spiders and scorpions and crabs and shrimps and prawns and last but not least other fauna that I manage to capture with my camera.
I don't really think big but may be just their name (local name(s), English and scientific name), size, a note on taxonomy, habitat and distribution and probably their local status. On some species that I am familiar, may be I shall put something like breeding biology, food preferences and may be any threats to their survivality..
I hope it will generate some awareness to local fauna, especially those small and some cryptic species..
I wish I am able to do this, before they are gone..
Wish me luck..

Systomus binotatus (Valenciennes)

Family Cyprinidae
[Malay: ikan sisik, tebal sisik; English: ]

Systomus binotatus. Temonggor, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

It has been recognised that there are two closely resembling species present in Peninsular Malaysia namely S. binotatus and S. banksi. The body of S. binotatus is uniform silvery grey with a small blackish spot at the caudal base, and a blackish blotch under the anterior base of the dorsal fin that covers about six scales, and does not extend onto the middle part of the body. The blotch in some fish could be small but always never extended to the middle part of the body.

Systomus binotatus. Menderu, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia
Live specimen from Air Menderu, Kerteh, is very goldish which seldom seen in other specimens from other localities in Peninsular Malaysia.
Relatively small size fish (< 10cm SL). This fish is commonly found throughout Peninsular Malaysia and frequent shallow water.

Systomus binotatus (Valenciennes)

Family Cyprinidae
[Malay: ikan sisik, tebal sisik; English: ]

Systomus binotatus. Temonggor, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

It has been recognised that there are two closely resembling species present in Peninsular Malaysia namely S. binotatus and S. banksi. The body of S. binotatus is uniform silvery grey with a small blackish spot at the caudal base, and a blackish blotch under the anterior base of the dorsal fin that covers about six scales, and does not extend onto the middle part of the body. The blotch in some fish could be small but always never extended to the middle part of the body.

Systomus binotatus. Menderu, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia
Live specimen from Air Menderu, Kerteh, is very goldish which seldom seen in other specimens from other localities in Peninsular Malaysia.
Relatively small size fish (< 10cm SL). This fish is commonly found throughout Peninsular Malaysia and frequent shallow water.

Systomus binotatus (Valenciennes)

Family Cyprinidae
[Malay: ikan sisik, tebal sisik; English: ]

Systomus binotatus. Temonggor, Perak, Peninsular Malaysia

It has been recognised that there are two closely resembling species present in Peninsular Malaysia namely S. binotatus and S. banksi. The body of S. binotatus is uniform silvery grey with a small blackish spot at the caudal base, and a blackish blotch under the anterior base of the dorsal fin that covers about six scales, and does not extend onto the middle part of the body. The blotch in some fish could be small but always never extended to the middle part of the body.

Systomus binotatus. Menderu, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia
Live specimen from Air Menderu, Kerteh, is very goldish which seldom seen in other specimens from other localities in Peninsular Malaysia.
Relatively small size fish (< 10cm SL). This fish is commonly found throughout Peninsular Malaysia and frequent shallow water.

Biodiversity of Malaysia

I just about to embark to a daunting task writing some notes on Malaysia rich biodiversity, the fauna in particular. I would like to start with a note of fish followed by other animals that I like. Don't expect this to be something 'big' but I'll do my part to give a brief information and to help conserving the magnificent fauna of Malaysia. This laborious work will take years and will never be completed.. So, whatever is here, is just a piece of puzzle that can be found in the wild of Malaysia.
Click the link under the title "Biodiversity of Malaysia" to go to the page on fauna of my preference!

Freshwater Fishes of Peninsular Malaysia - a review part III

YES...!!! At last.. My literature review (LR) is almost done.. I got 4000 words (actually close to 5000 words!) Now, is the time to condense it.. After a week of reading and reading and writing and deleting and writing again.., I finally putting all information that is necessary in my LR.. I don't know what my supervisor will say about it but I hope she will like it..
More to read and write.. Wish me luck..

Freshwater Fishes of Peninsular Malaysia - a review part II

Oh no.. Oh no.. I got 7 subtopics to write for 4000 words.. Now, I already writing 3 subtopics and already 3500 words.. Now what..?? Hehe.. Have to cut lar.. Must put only important facts for now.. No long elaborated sentences.. For a start.. 10 days to June.. Huhu..

Freshwater Fishes of Peninsular Malaysia - a review

Weh.. What to write hah??? Hmmm.. Kena balik M'sia, baru boleh tulis kot.. Hehe.. That will be the first subtopic of my literature review (LR). Luckily, I bring with me some of the old manuscripts of PM fishes.. I can use them to write my LR. Well.. My LR does not progress much since last 2 weeks!! Huhu.. Help! Help..!! Help...!!!

Hmmm... I need a break.. May be a holiday will be nice.. Hehe.. Huh..!! Not even in a dream.. My 4000 words LR MUST be ready by next week.. Argh.. Die! Die..!! Die...!!! How maaa??? It is compulsory for the first committee meeting.. Adui la..
Err.. Better start cracking my head la kan.. Hehe.. Wish me luck.. ;-)

Celebrating Earth Day..

This is a great news to celebrate EARTH DAY today.. What else can I cay.. Oh ya.. This is not about fish!!
Well, at least the decision made by Scottish Energy Minister, Jim Mather NOT to proceed with the plan to build the biggest wind farm in Europe, is something "We are absolutely delighted" says the spokesman for pressure group Moorlands Without Turbines. The decision is made after 11,000 complaints against the scheme made by the locals to save the flying route of rare and endangered birds!
When Earth is getting warmer and warmer, wind energy is a good alternative though, but for this one, I agree and support the decision made by locals not to support the wind farm to be built at Lewis Is., Scotland. May be they could change the place.. So, Mother Earth will be happier.. The birds are safe and we get greener energy.. Who knows.. May God bless all human races..

Estimating Species Richness

This is a response to Jem's comment.. Jem.. Thanks for leaving a comment.. Unless you can't get it here, I'll email the paper.
Actually, Prof. R. K. Colwell put up so many papers on his website (http://viceroy.eeb.uconn.edu/Colwell). So very kind of him. Or go to Prof. Anne Chao's website (http://chao.stat.nthu.edu.tw/textfile/pub.html) for her 'technical' papers on the subject. Some are quite technical with mathematics equations and formulas. It took me some times to understand the contents but I guess it won't be a problem for you..
My advice: Search other relevant papers at Yahoo web search.
Since I'm here, I got so many papers from Yahoo web search. The 'hit' is better than Google. Just follow this two very simple steps:
1. Get a good paper/reference, say Colwell and Coddington 1994 (older paper, [probably] more hits!!)
2. Paste it there, and hit enter/return.. There you go..
(I tell you, a lot...)
So, who says you can not get references IF you are away from Univ. library or Univ. internet, huh!! Just get connected to internet..., anywhere.. ;-) [I'm not suggesting any of you (students especially!!) to not to go to library or Univ. when searching for references. This is just an alternative.. A good alternative, in deed!]

Oh yes!!!

At last, I got something to say about (my data on) fishes of headwater streams in Peninsular Malaysia. For the past few weeks, I've been busy analysing incidence-based data of headwater stream fishes to estimate how many are there? Today, I'm trying to write the 'output' of the analysis. It is one of the aim of my bigger reason for coming to St. Andrews. The result IS still preliminary but I hope to write a manuscript, soon. It worth reporting it..
Each day, I learn something new here. Well, one don't have to be in the class room to learn.. With a good guidance, a lot one can get.. Internet when it is used wisely, it does help a lot too.. For those who interested in analysing biodiversity, I suggest you read this paper: http://viceroy.eeb.uconn.edu/RKCPublications/ColwellAndCoddington1994_hr.pdf

I hope you know what I mean..

Once upon a time...

To those who wonder, where is the place that I used for this 'the banner' page was taken, I'll tell you about this awesome place, once it was.. Yeah.. but not anymore.. This is what's gonna happen to many of awesome 'place' for the name of development..
It's been a while since I last visited the place.. I the past, I used to go there with some frens, among other to do our fieldworks or on the way back from doing our fieldworks.. We use to stop here to get a 'refresment'.. Well.., not really like what you think, but more like what the kids are doing.. Just like them..
The place is call Sg. Beriah Kiri, at Kg. Changkat Lobak, not far from Bukit Merah. I can't really remember when the pic was taken but probably some times in 2000. It a cool place.. Unlike any other stream where you can dive, dip in or swim, this one is a 'blackwater' stream - the water more like tea or light, very light coffee.., emmm..., Nescafe probably.. The water is actually quite 'clear' but slightly tea-coloured. The underwater view is really something.. But it was all gone.. Too bad.. I miss it so much..

How many fish are there..?

I really don't know what it's all about but I wanted to do something with all the data I'd gathered for years of expeditions all over (sort of..) Peninsular Malaysia collecting and identify fish inhabiting the headwater ecosystems. All I got is the presence/absence data; on some cases abundance data as well which I really did not analyse enough to show ... Show what?? I don't know.. There must be something.. Well.. I know there must be a limit to 'how many species of fish utilise headwater ecosystem?' How many species all together, live in high oxygenated, fash flowing, clear streams in Peninsular Malaysia exactly? How to do that? How to determine that?
Well.. I know.. Now.. I guess.. In a few month to comes, I'm pretty sure I'll get the answer for this. Currently, I'm playing aroung with my data.. Believe me, something interesting will come out, soon..
So, fishes of headwater streams.., soon I can say how many of them really there..
"..Hai buaya-buaya semua.. Raja Sulaiman akan mengadakan kenduri.. Beta telah menitahkan supaya aku menghitung kepalamu.. Bersusunlah kamu, kepala bertemu kepala, hingga ke seberang sana, supaya aku boleh menghitung kamu.." kata Sang Kancil yang bijaksana.
Oh.. I hope "sang Kancil" will be proud of me..