African Butterfly Fish

🐟 African Butterfly Fish (Pantodon buchholzi)

📌 Description

• Scientific name: Pantodon buchholzi
• Common name: African Butterfly Fish
• Origin: Slow-moving waters in West and Central Africa
• Appearance:
  • Large, wing-like pectoral fins (butterfly resemblance)
  • Flattened body adapted for surface dwelling
  • Mottled brown/olive coloration for camouflage
• Size: ~10–13 cm (4–5 inches)
• Lifespan: ~5–8 years

🏡 Tank Requirements

• Tank size: Minimum 75 liters (20 gallons)
• Water level: Prefer shallow tanks with a large surface area
• Lid: Tight-fitting lid is essential (excellent jumpers)
• Lighting: Dim to moderate
• Plants:
  • Floating plants strongly recommended (e.g., water lettuce)
  • Provide cover and reduce stress

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Water flow: Very gentle (they dislike strong currents)

🍽️ Diet

• Carnivorous surface feeder
• Preferred foods:
  • Live insects (flies, crickets)
  • Mosquito larvae
  • Small fish
• Will accept:
  • Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
  • Occasionally floating pellets (may need training)

🐠 Behavior & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Zone: Top (surface dweller)
• Tank mates:
  • Good: Peaceful mid-to-bottom dwellers (e.g., tetras, catfish)
  • Avoid:
    • Small fish (may be eaten)
    • Aggressive or fast surface feeders
• Can be kept singly or in small groups if tank is large

⚠️ Special Care Notes

• Surface-dependent—needs open access to air
• Sensitive to sudden water changes
• Known for ambush hunting behavior
• Can glide/jump to catch prey outside water