African butterflyfish
Pantodon buchholzi
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Moderate
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Recommended tank
- 150 L
- Maximum size
- 12 cm
- Temperature
- 25–30 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Diet
- Carnivore
Care at a glance
The African butterflyfish from West and Central Africa hangs motionless at the surface with enormous, spread pectoral fins that look like butterfly wings. It waits for an insect to fall onto the water and then strikes at lightning speed.
It is an exceptional jumper and can launch itself well clear of the water, so a tight-fitting cover is an absolute requirement with this species. Feed floating live or frozen foods and do not keep it with small fish at the surface; those it sees as a meal.
Good to know
Best not combined with
Related species
Keep African butterflyfish in the BlubHub app
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.