Butterfly Fish (Pantodon buchholzi)
Pantodon buchholzi
Origin: West and Central Africa (Congo River basin, Niger delta region)
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 13 cm
- Min Tank
- 100 L
- Lifespan
- 5-8
- Swimming Level
- top
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- carnivore
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive; predatory toward surface-dwelling and small fish
About
The African Butterfly Fish is a remarkable surface-dwelling predator from West and Central Africa with enormous pectoral fins resembling butterfly wings used for gliding above the water surface to escape danger. It lurks motionless at the surface waiting for insects and small fish to come within range, then strikes with explosive speed. A secure, tight-fitting lid is absolutely essential as these fish leap considerable distances.
Care Guide
Provide a tight-fitting lid — these fish leap out of any gap. House with fish that occupy lower water levels only (they will eat surface fish). Feed live/frozen insects, small fish, floating foods. Prefers dim lighting and surface vegetation like floating plants. Keep singly or in a biotope setup. Avoid boisterous tank mates.
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