No photo yet
Sign in to submit the first photo
Climbing Perch
Anabas testudineus
📍 Southeast Asia
The Climbing Perch is a hardy, labyrinth-breathing fish native to Southeast Asia that can survive in low-oxygen environments and even travel short distances on land. Known for their ability to climb and explore, they are moderately aggressive and territorial, making them suitable for experienced aquarists. These fish are adaptable and can thrive in various water conditions, though they require adequate space and hiding spots.
Care Guide
Diet
Climbing Perch are opportunistic omnivores that consume small fish, aquatic insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. Feed a varied diet including high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish. Offer food 2-3 times daily, adjusting portions based on tank size and fish activity.
Behavior
Climbing Perch are active, curious fish that explore their environment extensively and can climb vegetation and tank decorations using their pectoral fins. They are territorial and semi-aggressive, particularly toward smaller fish and conspecifics, so they should be housed singly or with larger, compatible species. They are labyrinth breathers and will surface regularly to gulp air.
Breeding
Breeding Climbing Perch in captivity is challenging and rarely successful in home aquariums. They require specific water conditions, large breeding tanks, and careful pair selection. Males are highly territorial during spawning and may injure females; professional breeding setups with proper conditioning are recommended.
Tank Mates
Similar size and temperament; may compete for territory but can coexist with careful monitoring
Both semi-aggressive; requires large tank with adequate space and hiding spots
Similar size and peaceful-to-moderate temperament; compatible in larger tanks
Bottom-dweller that occupies different tank zone; minimal competition
May be preyed upon if small; only suitable in larger tanks with ample hiding
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Increase water temperature to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; maintain good water quality
Bacterial Infection
Fin rot, body sores, ulcers, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, use antibiotic medication if severe; isolate affected fish if possible
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, visible parasites, weight loss, clamped fins
Use anti-parasitic medication, perform water changes, improve tank hygiene; quarantine new fish before introduction
Labyrinth Organ Infection
Difficulty breathing, gasping at surface, swollen gill area, lethargy
Maintain optimal water quality, ensure access to air surface, use antibiotics if bacterial; avoid sudden temperature changes
Community Photos
0 photosPhotos are added when members log a tank with this species and upload a photo in their tank journal. Add your own tank to contribute.
No photos yet — add a tank with Climbing Perch to be the first!
Sign in to vote.
Tips from the community 💡
0 tipsReal experiences, care advice, and keeper notes. Finn learns from these too.
Sign in to share your experience.
No community tips yet — be the first to share your knowledge!
Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore - feeds on small fish, insects, crustaceans, and plant matter
- lifespan
- 5-10 years
- max size
- 25 cm (10 in)
- tank size
- 40 gallons minimum
- temperament
- semi-aggressive
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0-8.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 5-20 dGH
- temperature
- 68–86°F (20–30°C)