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Kingsley's Ctenopoma
Ctenopoma kingsleyae
📍 West Africa
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.
Care Guide
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
Small, 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
Common Diseases
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
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore - small insects, zooplankton, and plant matter
- lifespan
- 4-6 years
- max size
- 6 cm (2.5 in)
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- temperament
- peaceful
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0-7.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 4-8 dGH
- temperature
- 75–82°F (24–28°C)