Approx Max Length : 20cm

Tailspot Ctenopoma - Ctenopoma kingsleyae Fish Profile & Care Guide

The captivating Tailspot Ctenopoma (Ctenopoma kingsleyae) thrives in pairs, although caution is advised as males may display aggression towards one another, particularly during spawning. However, by providing ample hiding places and ensuring broken lines of sight, you can successfully maintain multiple males in the same tank without encountering significant issues.

While a species-only setup is recommended for optimal care, the Tailspot Ctenopoma can also coexist harmoniously with compatible tank mates. It is advisable to select small, peaceful species that occupy different levels of the aquarium, such as Tetras, Rasboras, killifish, and Hatchet fish. The presence of suitable tankmates not only enriches the environment but also encourages these naturally shy fish to venture out more frequently. Nevertheless, it is essential to avoid housing them with tiny fish or fry, as the Tailspot Ctenopoma may regard them as a delectable meal. Additionally, it is prudent to refrain from introducing nippy, boisterous, or significantly larger aggressive species to maintain a tranquil atmosphere.

To create an ideal habitat, a well-established aquarium is paramount for the Tailspot Ctenopoma's well-being. A dark substrate, coupled with abundant hiding places such as plants, driftwood, and smooth rocks, offers the necessary security and natural aesthetic appeal. The inclusion of floating plants not only enhances the visual allure but also serves to diffuse light, providing a sense of comfort for these shy creatures.

Adequate filtration, while maintaining gentle water movement, is crucial for maintaining optimal water quality. Implementing small, frequent partial water changes aids in minimizing nitrate levels and promotes a healthier environment for the fish. While Tailspot Ctenopomas exhibit adaptability to various water conditions, it is advised to avoid abrupt and extreme changes.

To accentuate their vibrant colours, providing soft, slightly acidic water yields the most favourable results. Incorporating dried Indian Almond leaves or leaf litter further enhances the natural ambience, contributing to a more authentic and aesthetically pleasing habitat.

Notably, the Tailspot Ctenopoma boasts silvery-grey to tan heads and bodies adorned with a distinctive dark spot at the base of the caudal fin. This distinct feature adds a captivating touch to their overall appearance, making them an enchanting addition to any aquarist's collection.

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Sexual Dimorphism

Distinguishing between male and female Tailspot Ctenopomas can pose a challenge due to their visual similarities. Nevertheless, there are subtle characteristics that can aid in differentiation. Males typically exhibit a more pronounced tapering around their gill covers and under their eyes, imparting a sleeker appearance. In contrast, females tend to be larger in size, showcasing a relatively more robust physique. These nuanced distinctions allow keen observers to discern the gender differences within this captivating species.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Ctenopoma kingsleyae
Year Described	1896
Other Names	Climbing Perch, Gray Ctenopoma, Kingsley's Ctenopoma, Silverbelly Climbing Perch, Silverbelly Ctenopoma, Tailspot Climbing Perch
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Anabantiformes
Family	Anabantidae
Genus	Ctenopoma
Origins	Senegal Democratic Republic of the Congo Guinea Mauritania
Approx Max Size	20 cm
Temperament	Semi-Aggressive
Aquarium Level	Middle
Difficulty	Intermediate
Shoaling	No
Best kept as	Pairs
Diet & Feeding	Carnivore
Reproduction	Bubble Nester
Average Lifespan	Up to 10 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	6.0 - 8.0
GH	5 - 15

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	68 - 80
℃	20 - 26

Natural Habitat

Tailspot Ctenopomas are distributed across several regions in Africa, including Senegal, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, and Mauritania. These fish are primarily found in the Volta, Niger, and Congo River Basins. Furthermore, they are known to inhabit coastal rainforest areas, adding to the diversity of their natural habitat.

Breeding

Breeding Tailspot Ctenopomas presents a moderate challenge, but with dedication and proper conditions, success can be attained. It is noteworthy that these fish reach sexual maturity around the age of two years. To facilitate breeding, a dedicated tank with a capacity of approximately 50 litres is recommended. Maintaining a stable temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) is crucial, and the inclusion of plentiful floating plants serves as an essential component of the breeding environment.

Typically, the spawning process occurs during the evening hours. The Tailspot Ctenopomas engage in quick breeding over the substrate, with no parental care or bubble nest construction observed. Notably, the small eggs exhibit buoyancy, ascending to the water's surface and eventually finding their resting place within the shelter of floating plants. However, it is important to note that parental consumption of the eggs is a possibility, necessitating their removal at this stage to maximize survival rates.

Approximately 24 hours following the deposition of the eggs, hatching commences. The fry will emerge as free-swimming individuals within a span of two to three days thereafter. At this delicate stage, the fry is minuscule and requires specialized nourishment. Feeding them infusoria for the initial week provides the essential sustenance required for their development. Subsequently, their dietary preferences expand, allowing for the introduction of microworms and baby brine shrimp.

Diet & Feeding

To meet the dietary requirements of the Tailspot Ctenopoma, it is essential to prioritize a carnivorous feeding regime. A diet primarily consisting of meaty foodstuffs is recommended to support the nutritional needs of these fish. Live and frozen options such as daphnia, brine shrimp, lobster eggs, cyclops, Mysis shrimp, and bloodworms serve as excellent protein-rich choices. However, it is crucial to exercise caution with bloodworms due to their challenging digestibility for the fish. Supplementing their diet with earthworms sourced from your garden or finely chopped store-bought options like mussels, prawns, krill, and fresh fish (ensuring it is fresh or frozen and avoiding fish canned in oil) can provide additional variety and nutrients.

Dried foods formulated specifically for predatory fish containing insect materials, such as Fluval bug bites, can serve as a suitable dietary supplement. By observing your fish's preferences and conducting food trials, you can identify the specific foods that elicit the most favourable response. Nonetheless, it is crucial to avoid overfeeding and promptly remove any excess uneaten food from the tank to maintain optimal water quality and prevent potential health issues for the fish.