Leopard Bush Fish (Ctenopoma acutirostre)

The Leopard Bush Fish (Ctenopoma acutirostre) is native to the Congo River basin and adjacent river systems in Central Africa, where it inhabits slow-moving, heavily vegetated rivers, backwaters, and flooded forest areas. A member of the family Anabantidae (bush fish, climbing perch), it possesses the suprabranchial labyrinth organ that allows it to breathe atmospheric air.

The pale cream to tan body is covered with numerous dark brown to black rounded spots of varying sizes scattered irregularly across the body and fins, creating an immediately recognizable leopard pattern. A dark stripe passes through the eye. The body is laterally compressed with a pointed snout and large mouth well-suited to predation.

Leopard Bush Fish are exceptional ambush predators employing a unique hunting strategy: they drift motionless in the water column, angled slightly head-down with fins tucked, mimicking a dead leaf drifting on the current. Small fish or invertebrates that come within range are seized with lightning speed.

Reaching 15–20 cm, Leopard Bush Fish are substantial aquarium fish requiring large tanks and careful tankmate selection. They are predatory toward any fish or invertebrate small enough to be consumed — typically any fish smaller than half their own body length. Despite their predatory nature, they are entirely peaceful toward fish too large to eat, making them suitable for appropriately matched community setups.

Leopard Bush Fish prefer soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water: pH 6.0–7.5, hardness 3–15 dGH, and temperatures 23–28°C. They are adaptable and relatively tolerant of water conditions as long as water quality is good.

A minimum 200-liter aquarium is recommended for a single adult. Provide dense plantings of large, robust aquatic plants (Vallisneria, large Echinodorus, plastic or very robust plants), driftwood, large rocks, and caves for hiding and ambush positions. Surface floating plants reduce surface light, which these fish prefer.

Feed meaty foods: whole prawns, mussels, large bloodworms, earthworms, and quality carnivore pellets or sticks. They may initially refuse prepared foods, preferring live prey. Gradually transition to accepting high-quality frozen and prepared carnivore foods. Feed every 2–3 days — do not overfeed.

Compatible with large, robust fish: large barbs, large catfish, medium to large cichlids, and other robust species at least 7–8 cm or larger. Never house with smaller fish, shrimp, or invertebrates — these will be consumed. Avoid housing with other labyrinth fish that may be consumed or trigger aggression.

Multiple individuals can coexist in large tanks but require sufficient space. Keep only one per tank in smaller setups. Water changes of 25–30% weekly maintain water quality.