Species profile
African Butterfly Fish
Pantodon buchholzi
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
200 L minimum aquarium
10–15 cm adult size
Top
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Surface-dwelling African predator with a huge mouth and exceptional jumping ability; tank footprint and lid security are critical.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–30 °C
pH
5.5–7
GH
Up to 12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Top
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
1.6
Occupies the surface and may tolerate conspecifics where surface area is generous, but anything small enough to swallow is potential prey.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
200 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pantodon buchholzi
Alternative names
African Butterfly Fish, Freshwater Butterflyfish
Native range
West and central African river basins, including the Congo system.
Natural habitat
Slow or still shaded waters, swamp margins and quiet river edges with abundant surface vegetation.
Diet & feeding
Surface micropredator/insectivore taking terrestrial insects, aquatic invertebrates and suitably sized meaty foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Anal-fin structure is the key external cue: males have a modified/indented anal fin, while females are typically fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Buoyant eggs are released near the surface and can hatch in roughly two days; deliberate breeding requires careful management of parents and fry.