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LABYRINTH FISH
ANABANTIDAE FAMILY
The Anabantidae or Climbing Perch Family is made up of three genera;
Anabas, Ctenopoma,
and
Sandelia
, and is widespread throughout Africa and Southeast Asia. Anabas species are well-known for their land exploits, and some are said to have the ability to climb shrubs and small trees.
Climbing Perch, Climbing Bass
[
Anabas testudineus
SYN
:
Amphiprionscansor, A. testudineus, Anabas elongatus, A macrocephalus, A. microcephalus, A. scandens, A. spinosus, A. variegatus, Antias testudineus, Lutjanus scandens, Perca scandens, Sparus scandens, S. testudineus
PD
: This oval-shaped species has large scales, and spiny rays on the dorsal fin. The body color is generally gray to brown, and occasionally a greenish iridescence is present. The iris of the eye may be orange.
SIZE
: To 10" (25 cm)
SS
: None
HAB
: Widespread from
India
to Southern China and
Indonesia
. This species inhabits a wide range of habitats including fresh and brackish water.
S: all
TANK
: A tank measuring 32" (81 cm) with a capacity of 30 gallons (115 L) is sufficient for fish up to 6" (15 cm) in length. This species prefers shallow tanks with a cover of floating plants. Provide hiding places among rocks and wood. Most importantly, use a tight-fitting cover so this fish is not togo for a "walk" around your home.
WATER
: pH 5.5-8 (7.0), 2-18 dH (8), 73-88�F (23-31�C)
SB
: An aggressive species that should only be combined with other large, robust species. Smaller fish will serve as prey to this interesting fish.
SC
: Possibly
Ctenopoma
species in a large tank, large Cyprinds, Knifefish,
Mastacembelus, Polypterus,
Giant Danios.
FOOD
: Live; small fish,
Tubifex
, insects,
insect larvae
, small amphibians,crustaceans, chopped earthworms; lettuce; spinach; tablets; pellets; flakes; chopped meat; oatmeal; peas
SEX: Males have slightly longer anal and dorsal fins.
B
: A spacious tank is needed for breeding. The pair should be fed with varied live foods in order to get them into spawning condition. The floating eggs are laid randomly. These should be removed, and usually hatch after 24-30 hours. Start feeding with Infusoria.
BP
: 7. Breeding is moderately difficult, in part due to the large tank requirement.
R
: This species is famous for its survival capabilities and durability. At times of little food or water, this species will move overland, utilizing its labyrinth organ for breathing purposes. Many have reported that this species climbs small shrubs and fallen limbs at times. Often during the dry season, this species will burrow into the mud and remain dormant for extended periods. This species is considered a fine food fish in several countries.
DC
: 4. This robust, omnivorous fish is tolerant to many aquarium conditions. The drawbacks to this species include its quarrelsome, predatory nature, and the size that it can attain.
Ornate Ctenopoma
[
Ctenopoma ansorgii
SYN
:
Anabasansorgii
PD
: This moderately compressed, elongated species has a pointed head, and a rounded caudal fin. The body ranges from gray-silver to orange-silver. The body marked with about seven brown, transverse bands. These bands run through the large anal and dorsal fins, which are orange in color. The caudal fin is dark brown. The head is marked with irregular brown bands.
SIZE
: To 3.2" (8 cm)
SS
: Other
Ctenopoma
species
HAB
: West Africa; in shallow shore areas around Stanley Pool, Zaire
S: bottom, middle
TANK
: A tank measuring 32" (80 cm) with a capacity of 30 gallons (114 L) is sufficient. Arrange the tank as recommended for
A.testudineus
.
WATER
: pH 6-7.5 (6.8), 3-18 dH (8), 77-82�F (25-28�C)
SB
: Males are belligerent towards one another, although otherwise a peaceful species that can be combined with peaceful fish. Small fish may be preyed upon.
SC
: Congo Tetra, some
Synodontis
, Kribensis, other West African cichlids, Spiny Eels, Mormyrids.
FOOD
: Live; small fish,
Tubifex
, insects,
insect larvae
, small amphibians, crustaceans, chopped earthworms; lettuce; spinach; tablets; pellets; flakes; chopped meat; oatmeal; peas
SEX: Males have slightly longer anal and dorsal fins, which are white in color.
B
: Spawning has been reported in water with a pH from 6.2-6.5, a water hardness from 2-5dH, and a water temperature from 81-82�F (27-28�C). A bubble nest is constructed, where the eggs are deposited. A fry can be raised on micro foods.
BP
: 8.Breeding is fairly unusual.
R
: The color of this species varies.
DC
: 5.This species requires a diet including live foods.
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