Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf climbing perch (Microctenopoma nanum) is a freshwater fish of the family Anabantidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving to standing, densely vegetated and often oxygen-poor swamp and forest-stream water.
Description
The dwarf climbing perch is a small labyrinth fish of the family Anabantidae (climbing gouramies) reaching about 7 cm. The brownish body bears dark cross-bars; breeding males are more boldly marked. Like other labyrinth fish the species has a labyrinth organ above the gills with which it can breathe air, allowing it to survive in warm, densely vegetated and oxygen-poor swamp water where few other fish persist. It comes from West and Central Africa and lives in slow to still forest and swamp water. As a small predator it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms among the water plants. In the rainy season the male builds a bubble nest or guards the eggs laid among plants. It is known from the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf climbing perch?
The Dwarf climbing perch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small labyrinth fish with dark vertical bars; breathes air with a labyrinth organ and so survives oxygen-poor swamp water.
Where does the Dwarf climbing perch live?
The Dwarf climbing perch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving to standing, densely vegetated and often oxygen-poor swamp and forest-stream water.
How big does the Dwarf climbing perch get?
The Dwarf climbing perch grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Dwarf climbing perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf climbing perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dwarf climbing perch edible?
The Dwarf 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 Dwarf climbing perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf climbing perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.