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FishmediumFreshwater

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.

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Common diseases 4Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), Fin Rot, Labyrinth Organ Infection, Parasitic Infections

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against objects

Treatment

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

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove uneaten food, treat with antibacterial medication if severe

Labyrinth Organ Infection

Symptoms

Difficulty breathing, gasping at surface, swollen gill area, loss of appetite

Treatment

Maintain pristine water conditions, ensure access to air surface, treat with antibacterial medication and consider salt baths

Parasitic Infections

Symptoms

Excessive scratching, visible parasites, weight loss, cloudy eyes

Treatment

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).

Keepers’ experiences

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