Spotted ctenopoma - Ctenopoma acutirostre

Scientific name: Ctenopoma acutirostre

Common name: Spotted ctenopoma

Family: Anabantidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 17 - 20 cm (6.69 - 7.87 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 12°N (89.29 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 26 °C (69.8 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Spotted ctenopoma’s are highly carnivorous. Their diet should consist of brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and mollusks. Quality flakes and pellets will be accepted but meaty foods should be the main diet.

Origin

Africa; Spotted ctenopoma’s are found in the Congo River Basins.

Sexing

Sexing can be difficult. The only visible difference is the short spines that are present on the gill covers of the males. There are none present on the females.

Breeding

A large, well planted tank should be used for breeding. As Ctenopoma acutirostre are bubble nest builders, the addition of floating plants will help them. The water should be soft and acidic with a reduced water flow. Once the fish have spawned, they should be moved to another tank. The fry can be fed on Infusoria initially; as they grow their diet can consist of newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Spotted ctenopoma is 5-8 years.

Short description

Plenty of hiding places in the tank will put Spotted ctenopoma at ease. In the wild they hunt their prey, bending their caudal fin to resemble a leaf. These are nocturnal fish so they may hide away in the day time.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.