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Kingsley's Ctenopoma
Ctenopoma kingsleyae
Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Anabantidae
Kingsley's Ctenopoma is a small, peaceful labyrinth fish native to West African waters, known for its subtle coloration and interesting behavior. This species is ideal for planted community tanks and appreciates plenty of hiding spots among vegetation. It's a hardy fish that adapts well to various water conditions, making it suitable for intermediate aquarists.
Where it's from
Native to the Agneby, Bagru, Bandama, Bofon and 53 other river basins
Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, Congo - Kinshasa, Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal and 9 more
At a glance
- Size
- 2.5 in
- 6 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal
- 76 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Middle
- Lifespan
- 4-6 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Kingsley's Ctenopoma is an omnivore that feeds on small live foods such as daphnia, mosquito larvae, and small insects, supplemented with quality micro pellets and occasional plant matter. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, offering only what can be consumed in a few minutes. This species prefers live or frozen foods but will adapt to high-quality prepared foods over time.
Behavior
This species is a peaceful, somewhat reclusive fish that spends much of its time near vegetation and substrate. It exhibits labyrinth breathing behavior, occasionally surfacing to gulp air. Kingsley's Ctenopoma is generally solitary and territorial but tolerates peaceful community members; it becomes more active during feeding times and in low-light conditions.
Breeding
Breeding Kingsley's Ctenopoma in captivity is challenging and rarely accomplished by hobbyists. Males build bubble nests and guard eggs, requiring pristine water conditions and minimal disturbance. Successful breeding requires a dedicated breeding tank with dense vegetation, stable temperatures, and careful conditioning of breeding pairs.
Tank mates
See all 5Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy different water zones
Bottom-dwelling catfish that don't compete for space or food
Similar size and temperament, both appreciate planted tanks
Small algae eater that won't compete or disturb this peaceful species
Peaceful invertebrate that helps maintain tank cleanliness
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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Labyrinth Organ Infection, Parasitic Infections
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against objects
Raise temperature gradually to 28-30 C (82-86 F), perform 25% water changes daily, use aquarium salt or ich medication as directed
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove uneaten food, treat with antibacterial medication if severe
Labyrinth Organ Infection
Difficulty breathing, gasping at surface, swollen gill area, loss of appetite
Maintain pristine water conditions, ensure access to air surface, treat with antibacterial medication and consider salt baths
Parasitic Infections
Excessive scratching, visible parasites, weight loss, cloudy eyes
Quarantine affected fish, treat with antiparasitic medication, perform frequent water changes, maintain optimal water parameters
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 2.5 in6 cm
- Min tank
- 20 gal76 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Middle
- Lifespan
- 4-6 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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