Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded climbing perch (Microctenopoma fasciolatum) is a freshwater fish of the family Anabantidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The banded ctenopoma (Microctenopoma fasciolatum) is a small African labyrinth fish of the family Anabantidae from the Congo basin. The species has a stocky, brownish body with numerous narrow, dark vertical bands and reaches about 8 cm. Like other labyrinth fishes it has an accessory breathing organ that lets it gulp air at the surface, an adaptation to oxygen-poor water. It is a small ambush predator hunting insects and small invertebrates in calm, vegetated waters. The male builds a bubble nest and guards the eggs and larvae. Owing to its handsome banding the species is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded climbing perch?
The Banded climbing perch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Narrow dark vertical bars; labyrinth organ and bubble-nest-building male.
Where does the Banded climbing perch live?
The Banded climbing perch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Quiet, vegetated waters of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Banded climbing perch get?
The Banded climbing perch grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Banded climbing perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded climbing perch is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Banded climbing perch edible?
The Banded climbing perch is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microctenopoma
More from the family Anabantidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded climbing perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded climbing perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.