Species profile
African Leaf Fish
Polycentropsis abbreviata
Semi aggressive
Hard care
120 L minimum aquarium
6–8 cm adult size
Midwater
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Soft acidic water, subdued light and calm feeding conditions are important. Do not house with tiny fish or ornamental shrimp.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
5.5–6.8
GH
1–8 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
Midwater
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
1.3
Cryptic ambush predator. Best with similarly calm fish too large to swallow, or in a species-focused aquarium.
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
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
5–8 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Polycentropsis abbreviata
Alternative names
African Leaffish, West African Leaf Fish
Native range
West and Central Africa from Benin/Nigeria through Cameroon to Gabon.
Natural habitat
Shaded, slow forest streams, swamps and densely vegetated margins with soft acidic water, leaf litter and very weak current.
Diet & feeding
Small live/frozen invertebrates and other meaty foods; many specimens are reluctant to accept dry foods initially.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is difficult outside breeding condition.
Breeding
Spawning is associated with sheltered leaves/cover; the male guards the egg site/brood. Captive breeding is uncommon and specialist.