Ornate Ctenopoma | Ctenopoma ansorgii

Labyrinth Fish / Anabantidae / Ornate Ctenopoma

Profile: Ornate Ctenopoma
Ctenopoma ansorgii Synonyms: Anabas ansorgii
Physical description: This moderately compressed, elongated species has a pointed head, and a rounded caudal fin. The boy 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/Length: To 3.2" (8 cm)
Similar species: Other Ctenopoma species
Habitat: West Africa; in shallow shore areas around Stanley Pool, Zaire
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: 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 chemistry: pH 6-7.5 (6.8), 3-18 dH (8), 77-82°F (25-28°C)
Social behavior: Males are belligerent towards one another, although otherwise a peaceful species that can be combined with peaceful fish. Small fish may be preyed upon.
Suggested companions: 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.
Breeding techniques: Spawning has been reported in water with a pH from 6.2-6.5, a water hardness from 2-5 dH, and a water temperature from 81-82°F (27-28°C). A bubble nest is constructed, where the eggs are deposited. The fry can be raised on micro foods.
Breeding potential: 8. Breeding is fairly unusual.
Remarks: The color of this species varies.
Difficulty of care: 5. This species requires a diet including live foods.