Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspot climbing perch (Microctenopoma intermedium) is a freshwater fish of the family Anabantidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Southern Africa; mainly the Okavango, Zambezi and Kafue systems and the St. Lucia basin, plus southern tributaries of the Congo system.
Description
The intermediate climbing perch is a small African labyrinth fish of the family Anabantidae from southern Africa. The species grows to only about 6 cm and inhabits dense marginal vegetation of rivers, lakes, lagoons and channels of swamps and floodplains. Like other labyrinth fishes it has an accessory breathing organ with which it can gulp air at the surface, an adaptation to oxygen-poor water. It feeds on insects and other small organisms. Climbing perches often build a foam nest for the eggs. The species is occasionally kept as an aquarium fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspot climbing perch?
The Blackspot climbing perch has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Labyrinth organ for air breathing; often builds a bubble nest for the eggs.
Where does the Blackspot climbing perch live?
The Blackspot climbing perch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa; mainly the Okavango, Zambezi and Kafue systems and the St. Lucia basin, plus southern tributaries of the Congo system.
How big does the Blackspot climbing perch get?
The Blackspot climbing perch grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Blackspot climbing perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackspot climbing perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackspot climbing perch edible?
The Blackspot climbing perch is not usually eaten.
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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 Blackspot climbing perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspot climbing perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.