African Butterflyfish (Pantodon buchholzi) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 40 gallons and 75-86°F. A flat-backed surface fish with huge, wing-like pectoral fins. It hunts at the top of the tank, can leap out of the water, and needs a tight lid, floating plants for cover and a calm surface, not strong flow.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Pantodon buchholzi |
|---|---|
| Family | Pantodontidae |
| Origin | West and Central Africa |
| Adult size | 4-5 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-86°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful with large tankmates, but eats anything small enough to swallow |
| Social behavior | Solitary or a small group in a large tank |
| Swim level | Top (surface) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: insects, crickets, small frozen foods, floating sticks or pellets once trained |
| Typical lifespan | 5-8 years |
Quick tips
- Use a very secure lid; it can jump and glide out of the tank.
- Do not keep with small fish such as neons; it will eat them.
- Keep the surface calm and dim with floating plants.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi