Ctenopoma acutirostre

A Little More Information...

The Ctenopoma acutirostre, also known as the Leopard Ctenopoma, is an African labyrinth fish valued for its unusual body shape and mottled brown pattern. Native to the Congo Basin, it inhabits quiet waters where vegetation and cover allow it to remain inconspicuous. Its mainly crepuscular behavior, forward-facing mouth and tendency to ambush small prey make it a fascinating resident for a spacious aquarium. This species has intermediate availability, classified here as uncommon, and is best suited to aquarists able to provide stable water, hiding places and appropriately sized tank mates.

General description of the species

Ctenopoma acutirostre is an African freshwater fish in the family Anabantidae, subfamily Ctenopominae. It belongs to the labyrinth fishes, which can use atmospheric air through a specialized organ, an adaptation that is useful in warm water that may contain limited dissolved oxygen. Its deep, laterally compressed body, measured swimming style and camouflage give it the appearance of an ambush predator. The species is generally discreet during the day and becomes more active as the light fades. It can reach about 15 cm in aquaria, with larger individuals possible under excellent conditions. Despite its striking common name, the Leopard Ctenopoma is not constantly aggressive; it is instead an opportunistic hunter that may regard very small fish as prey. A structured aquarium with sturdy plants, roots and shaded areas encourages natural behavior.

Geographic origin and biotope

The species comes from the Congo Basin, particularly the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with an important reference to the Pool Malebo and the Congo River. It occurs in slow or moderately flowing sections, often near banks filled with branches, roots and vegetation. The water is generally soft to moderately mineralized, slightly acidic to neutral, and consistently tropical in temperature. Light filtered through vegetation explains its preference for shaded areas and aquariums without harsh lighting. The bottom is usually made up of sand, mud and plant debris, sometimes mixed with submerged branches. In captivity, recreate this setting with a moderate current, open access to the surface for breathing and several visual shelters. Floating plants or subdued lighting can also reduce stress and encourage evening activity.

Precise location and local name

The main geographic reference associated with this species is the Pool Malebo, a broad expansion of the Congo River located between Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Brazzaville in the Republic of the Congo. Suitable habitats occur in backwaters, quiet edges and cluttered shoreline areas rather than in strongly exposed current. The common aquarium name is Leopard Ctenopoma, referring to its contrasting spots. In English, the genus is also commonly associated with the name bushfish. To create a suitable atmosphere, the aquarium should include roots, broad-leaved plants, cavities and shaded areas. A secure lid is recommended because labyrinth fishes may jump when startled. The name most widely used in the aquarium trade is therefore Leopard Ctenopoma rather than a specific regional vernacular name.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The Leopard Ctenopoma has a sturdy, oval and laterally compressed body, with a relatively broad head and distinctly pointed snout. Its background color ranges from golden brown to grayish brown and is covered with irregular dark spots that break up its outline among leaves and roots. The dorsal and anal fins are long and supported by spiny rays, giving the fish an elegant appearance when fully extended. Its protruding mouth reflects its adaptation for capturing small prey. The eye is well developed, matching its activity in low light. Color may become darker or paler depending on mood, lighting and surroundings. Opercular spines require careful handling with a net. Its overall shape, pointed snout and spotted pattern make it easy to distinguish from other ctenopomas sold under the general bushfish name.

General diet

In nature, Ctenopoma acutirostre is an opportunistic predator that mainly consumes small fish, aquatic larvae, crustaceans and various invertebrates. In aquaria, it generally accepts frozen meaty foods such as shrimp, krill, bloodworms and appropriately sized pieces of marine fish. Sinking pellets rich in protein may be offered after acclimation, but they should not make up the entire diet. Young specimens benefit from more frequent meals and portions suited to their mouth, while adults should be fed moderately to prevent excess weight. It is best to offer food as the lighting dims because its activity is often crepuscular. Small fish, dwarf shrimp and invertebrates small enough to swallow may be hunted. A varied, clean and protein-rich diet supports growth, coloration and overall condition.

Essential data

• Name of the river of origin: Malebo, in the Pool Malebo and Congo River region
• Local name used: Leopard Ctenopoma
• Origin of the scientific name: The genus Ctenopoma refers to the spiny structure of the operculum; the species epithet is descriptive
• Full-name etymology: Ctenopoma approximately means comb-shaped operculum; acutirostre means pointed snout
• Common/vernacular names: Leopard Ctenopoma; Leopard bushfish; Leopard ctenopoma
• Family: Anabantidae
• Subfamily: Ctenopominae
• Name pronunciation: ten-oh-POH-mah ah-kyoo-tee-ROSS-tree
• Discovery: George Albert Boulenger, 1895
• Maximum adult size: About 15 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Slow to moderately flowing water, shaded banks, roots, submerged branches and dense vegetation
• Typical tank mates: Synodontis schoutedeni, Distichodus sexfasciatus, Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus, Phenacogrammus interruptus
• Temperament and behavior: Generally peaceful, discreet and territorial around its shelters; predator of small fish
• Water depth: Shoreline areas and quiet sections of shallow to moderate depth
• Sexual dimorphism: Limited; adults in breeding condition may show body-shape differences, but sexing remains difficult
• Bottom structure and flow: Sandy-muddy bottom with plant debris and roots; low to moderate flow

For aquarium success

To keep Ctenopoma acutirostre successfully, choose a spacious, securely covered aquarium with a natural layout. Warm, stable water that is slightly acidic to neutral, combined with a moderate current and subdued lighting, will help it feel secure. Provide several shelters and select tank mates too large to be swallowed. Feed mainly quality meaty foods in small, regular portions. Its intermediate availability and discreet behavior reward patient aquarists who respect its crepuscular rhythm and avoid overcrowding.