Fin's Fish Guide
The Tailspot climbing perch (Ctenopoma kingsleyae) is a freshwater fish of the family Anabantidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated and often oxygen-poor swamp and river water.
Description
The tailspot climbing perch is a brown labyrinth fish of the family Anabantidae (climbing gouramies) reaching about 13 cm. The sturdy body often bears a dark eyespot on the tail base. 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 and river water where few other fish persist, and even crawl over moist ground for short periods. It comes from West and Central Africa. As a small predator it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms and small fish among the water plants. In the rainy season it spawns among plants; the eggs float at the surface. It is known from the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tailspot climbing perch?
The Tailspot climbing perch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Small brown labyrinth fish with a dark eyespot on the caudal peduncle; breathes air with a labyrinth organ and so survives oxygen-poor water.
Where does the Tailspot climbing perch live?
The Tailspot 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, densely vegetated and often oxygen-poor swamp and river water.
How big does the Tailspot climbing perch get?
The Tailspot climbing perch grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Tailspot climbing perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Tailspot climbing perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tailspot climbing perch edible?
The Tailspot climbing perch is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenopoma
More from the family Anabantidae
Want the complete picture on the Tailspot climbing perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tailspot climbing perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.