🐟 African Butterfly Fish — (Pantodon buchholzi)

The African Butterfly Fish is a unique and captivating surface-dwelling fish native to West and Central African freshwater habitats. Known for its broad, wing-like pectoral fins and remarkable hunting technique, it’s a standout species for aquarists interested in interesting surface feeders.

🌊 Tank Setup

• 🏠 Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons with a tightly fitting lid to prevent jumping.
• 🌿 Provide floating plants and subdued lighting to mimic its natural shaded environment.
• 💨 Low water flow preferred for calm surface conditions.

🍽️ Diet

• 🦟 Carnivore — feeds on live or frozen insects, small fish, and crustaceans. Requires high-protein diet.

⚖️ Temperament

• ⚠️ Territorial towards own kind and other surface dwellers — best kept singly or as a mated pair.
• 🐟 Generally peaceful with bottom and mid-level fish.

🧠 Behavior & Care

• 🌊 Prefers to stay near the water surface, using its large pectoral fins to glide and ambush prey.
• 🧪 Requires warm, soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with stable conditions.
• 📏 Grows up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length.

📋 At a glance

💡 The African Butterfly Fish is a fascinating surface predator that thrives in well-planted tanks with gentle water flow and plenty of cover, perfect for hobbyists looking for something different.