Found in the Chao Phraya, Mekong River, Maeklong, Salween, Peninsular and Southeast Thailand river systems (Ref. 26336). In the Mekong basin, it migrates upstream from March to August. Known to migrate into tribuatries, small streams and canals and migration commences at the onset of the rainy season or when the water starts rising (Ref. 37770). Has an important spawning ground in Bung Borapet swamp in the Chao Phraya catchment (Ref. 37770). Captured from the wild for the ornamental fish trade (Ref. 6459). Museum: Mekong mainstream between Pak Ing and Jom Paeng, about 4-5 km downstream, CAS 95582 (Ref. 5515); also from Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, Kemarat (Ubon Ratchathani), Khon Kaen and Surat Thani (Ref. 37773). Also Ref. 1632, 26580, 27732, 36654, 43281.