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Origin: Congo, Kongo, Afrika. The fish occur i the river Kongo system and in the Stanley pool. Here the fish can be found in fast flowing rivers, but also in quieter regions and standing water.

Etymology: Unknown

Synonyms: None.

First European import: Belgium(?), 1955.

Description: See pictures

Care: These fish should be kept in larger tanks, with similar sized fish, or in large species tanks. To keep the fish, neutral water, not too hard, and frequent small waterchanges are necessary. A suitable environment for the fish can be created, using a dark soil, large pieces of driftwood, and densely planted zones, preferably combined with floating plants. In the wild Ctenopoma acutirostre is usually active in the evening, but in aquaria they display some activity during the day as well.

Temperature: 25-29 degrees.

Feeding: Predatory fish, they can be fed on live food, such as molluscs, worms, and small fish. Flake and frozen food is also accepted!

Size: Up to 15 cm.

pH: 6.5-7.5

Breeding: These fish have been bred in aquaria. The first breeding report came from the Basel Zoo, where the fish spawned in a large, well planted tank. They are free layers, and do not care for the eggs. Since then some US breeders have reported succesful spawns, although no details are available.

Sexual dimorphism: Spines on the males gill covers are more developed.

Prices: Around 10€

Additional:

Picture references: All pictures E. Naus

References:

Linke, H.(1980): Labyrinthfische - Farbe im Aquarium. Tetra Verlag, Melle, Germany.