Leopard Bushfish - 4cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Ctenopoma acutirostre
• Common Name: Leopard Bushfish / Spotted Ctenopoma / Spotted Climbing Perch
• Adult Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years
• Habitat: Native to slow-moving, heavily vegetated rivers and swampy areas of the Congo River Basin, Central Africa. Prefers shaded waters with dense plant cover and submerged roots or branches.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 150 liters (40 gallons) for a single adult
• Ideal Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: 4–18 dGH
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive and territorial; predatory toward smaller fish but generally peaceful with similar-sized or larger tankmates. Best kept alone or with calm, robust species.

Diet (Omnivorous / Predatory)
Diet should include:

• Live or frozen meaty foods such as bloodworms, shrimp, and small fish

• High-quality carnivore pellets and frozen food mixes

• Occasional insects or insect larvae

Avoid housing with small fish, as Leopard Bushfish are ambush predators.

Appearance
Distinctive Features:

• Deep, laterally compressed body with intricate leopard-like dark spots and patterns

• Large, upward-facing mouth adapted for ambush feeding

• Rounded fins with subtle orange or reddish hues on the edges

• Capable of breathing atmospheric air via a labyrinth organ (like gouramis and bettas)

• Intelligent and reclusive—often hides among plants or decor, stalking prey patiently