Today we will take a peek at the African Butterflyfish (Pantodon buchholzi).
The African Butterflyfish is a captivating and unique species of fish that comes from slow-moving, densely vegetated waters of west Africa. The common name of this surface-dwelling species is derived from it’s appearance when viewed from above, the large pectoral fins giving it the appearance of a butterfly. In reality, these fins serve a dual purpose. They help to camouflage the fish, making it look like a dead leaf floating on the surface, and along with the caudal fin, power the incredible jumps that it's capable of making. The fish jumps from the water to catch flying insects or to escape potential predators and it can make leaps of several meters in length. The eyes of the fish also have several structural features designed to allow it to see both down into the water and up into the air at the same time. They primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates that fall onto the water's surface, as well as any small fish that can fit in their mouths. For a fish with such power, it is actually quite an inactive species when not feeding, tending to remain motionless among the surface plants. It is crepuscular in the wild, becoming active during the hours around dusk.
In the aquarium, they should be kept in larger tanks as they grow to be ~5 inches (13 cm) and need tight fitting lids to keep them from jumping out. Live plants, especially floaters, provide needed cover. They also prefer dim lighting and little to no current. They are somewhat challenging to breed in captivity but it is possible. Their long, flowing fins are susceptible to fin nipping. The water should be soft and acidic, with a pH of 6.0-6.5 and a temperature of 77-80°F (25-27°C).
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