The Leopard Ctenopoma (Ctenopoma acutirostre) is a mesmerizing freshwater fish known for its leopard-like spotted pattern, stealthy hunting style, and unique labyrinth organ that allows it to breathe air. Native to the slow-moving rivers and swampy waters of the Congo Basin in Central Africa, this species is a patient ambush predator, making it a fascinating addition to larger, well-planned aquariums.
A Name That Reflects Its Stunning Appearance
The "Leopard" name comes from its golden-brown body covered in dark, irregular spots, resembling the markings of a wild leopard. This natural camouflage helps it blend into dense vegetation, allowing it to ambush unsuspecting prey with precision.
Growth and Tank Requirements
Leopard Ctenopomas grow up to 6-8 inches in length, requiring a minimum tank size of 50 gallons, with 75+ gallons recommended for fully grown specimens or multiple individuals. They prefer densely planted tanks with driftwood, caves, and shaded areas to replicate their natural habitat. Since they are slow-moving but predatory, tank mates should be chosen carefully—small fish may be seen as food.
Care and Water Parameters
This species thrives in temperatures between 75-82°F, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. A gentle but effective filtration system is recommended, as they are accustomed to slow-moving waters. Regular water changes are crucial to maintain water quality.
Diet and Feeding
Leopard Ctenopomas are carnivorous, feeding primarily on live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, small feeder fish, and insects. While they can sometimes be trained to eat high-quality pellets and freeze-dried foods, they strongly prefer a diet rich in meaty, high-protein options. Their ambush-hunting nature means they often wait patiently before striking at their food.
Unique Behaviors
Unlike fast-moving predators, the Leopard Ctenopoma is an opportunistic hunter, known for its slow, calculated movements and sudden bursts of speed when catching prey. It is also a labyrinth fish, meaning it can breathe atmospheric air, occasionally swimming to the surface for gulps of oxygen. These behaviors make it an engaging and rewarding fish for aquarists who enjoy observing natural predatory instincts.
Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care.