Known from the Rajang Basin in Sarawak, Borneo (Ref. 57780). Formed an important fishery in the country (Ref. 1739 and 6095). An important fish for the subsistence fisheries in the paddy growing areas (Ref. 84801). Genetic research (genetic relationship studies using electrophoretic markers) for the aquaculture sector is being done in the country (Ref. 55327). Introduced in the Krian rice-bowl area, northwestern Peninsular Malaysia. Has colonized swamps, canals and rice paddies where it yields 94-202 kg/ha but has been badly affected by double cropping of rice and wide use of pesticides. Has also displaced to some extent the native T. trichopterus (Ref. 6095).