Leopard Bush Fish (Ctenopoma acutirostre) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 40 gallons and 75-82°F. A spotted labyrinth fish that waits among plants and wood and eats anything that fits in its mouth. It is calm toward larger tankmates, needs a heavily planted tank, and should have an air gap under the lid.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Ctenopoma acutirostre |
|---|---|
| Family | Anabantidae |
| Origin | Congo basin, Africa |
| Adult size | 5-6 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Ambush predator, eats small fish; shy |
| Social behavior | Solitary or pair |
| Swim level | Mid to lower, among plants |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: live and frozen foods, krill, bloodworms, sinking pellets once trained |
| Typical lifespan | 6-10 years |
Quick tips
- Do not keep with fish small enough to swallow.
- Leave an air gap under the lid.
- Use dim light and plenty of plants, wood or caves for cover.
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