Ornate Ctenopoma (Microctenopoma ansorgii) Care Guide
Microctenopoma ansorgii is a small Congo-basin labyrinth fish with vertical bars and a peach belly, a peaceful bubble-nester for soft, shaded blackwater tanks.
Overview
Microctenopoma ansorgii, the ornate ctenopoma or ornate bushfish, is a small Central African labyrinth fish of the family Anabantidae. It shows vertical brown bars and a peach belly that glows orange in breeding males.
Taxonomy
- Family: Anabantidae
- Genus: Microctenopoma
- Scientific name: Microctenopoma ansorgii
- Common synonyms: Ornate Bushfish
Habitat
The species is native to the River Congo basin in parts of both the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. A feral population also exists in Madagascar. It favours soft, tannin-stained blackwater conditions.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L
- Temperature: 23-28 °C (73-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Provide dense planting, floating vegetation for cover and soft, tannin-stained water. The tank must be well covered, as these fish are escape artists.
Diet
A carnivore, it feeds mainly on small frozen or live foods and rarely accepts dried foods. As a slow-feeding ambush predator it can be outcompeted at feeding time, so deliberate feeding helps.
Compatibility
A slow-moving, peaceful species that appreciates shelter; males may show aggression toward each other, especially when spawning. Small Congo tetras and killifish make suitable companions, while boisterous fish should be avoided.
Breeding
The species is a bubble-nester. Males build loose bubble nests among floating plants, and up to 600 eggs can be laid, hatching in around 24 hours. Fry require infusoria initially, followed by brine shrimp nauplii.