Blue Eyes Lemon Bushfish (Ctenopoma acutirostre)

Ctenopoma acutirostre, the Spotted Bushfish or Leopard Bushfish, is a mesmerising and predatory labyrinth fish native to the Congo River basin in Central Africa. Unlike the more commonly kept gouramis, Ctenopoma species are true predators that use a sit-and-wait ambush strategy to capture prey — drifting motionless among leaf litter before striking with surprising speed.

The camouflage colouration is spectacular: a pale cream to yellow base covered in irregular dark brown to black spots, creating a pattern remarkably similar to the spotted patterns found on big cats. A dark patch at the base of the tail serves as a 'false eye' that confuses prey and predators alike. This patterning makes the fish virtually invisible among dead leaves on the substrate.

As a labyrinth fish, C. acutirostre possesses the labyrinth organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric oxygen directly — it must always have surface access. Unlike many other labyrinth fish, it does not build bubble nests but is an open water spawner.

Despite its predatory nature, the Leopard Bushfish is a shy and reclusive species that rarely shows aggression toward fish too large to eat. It is best kept in a species tank or with other large, robust fish that cannot be swallowed. All small fish, shrimp, and invertebrates will eventually be eaten.

Tank Setup: A minimum 150-litre aquarium with ample hiding places: dense planting, driftwood tangles, caves, and broad-leaved plants like Amazon swords. Dim lighting or floating plants suit this species — it is naturally a dim-light ambush predator. Keep water well-oxygenated with surface agitation.

Water Parameters: Temperature 23–28°C; pH 6.0–7.5; GH 3–15 °dH; KH 2–8 °dH. Prefers soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water reflecting its Congo basin origin.

Feeding: Carnivore. In the wild: small fish, insects, and invertebrates. In captivity: live foods initially (small fish, earthworms), but can be trained to accept frozen shrimp, Mysis, large bloodworm, and meaty frozen foods. Feeding is slow — the fish approaches prey gradually. Feed every 2–3 days; do not overfeed.

Tank Mates: Only fish that are too large to be eaten (10 cm+). Compatible with large barbs, larger cichlids, large Plecos, and similarly sized robust species. Absolutely cannot be kept with small fish, shrimp, or invertebrates.

Behaviour: Secretive and slow-moving during the day. Becomes active at dusk and night. Rests motionless among plants and decor for long periods — this is normal ambush predator behaviour, not illness. Rarely aggressive except when hunting.

Health: Hardy when kept correctly. Sensitive to poor water quality. Ensure good surface access for air-breathing. Never expose to cold draughts above the tank surface — the labyrinth organ is damaged by cold air.