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Freshwater fishAfrican Butterflyfish
African Butterflyfish
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The African butterfly fish is a specialized surface insect hunter and can actually glide a couple feet, so a tank cover is required. Freshwater butterfly fish are suitable with other species of similar size; these fish will eat small tank mates that fit in their mouth. Butterfly fish also have a single lung along with the gills that allows them to spend their entire life near the water surface.
Freshwater butterfly fish are one of the most ancient species available in the trade. Feed them flies and crickets along with floating foods and they will be happy. They look like the freshwater version of the saltwater lion fish.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pantodon buchholzi |
| Origin | West and Central Africa |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful (eats small fish) |
| Adult Size | Up to 5" |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years |
| Diet | Carnivore (insects, meaty foods) |
| Water Temperature | 75–86°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Group Size | Single |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 3" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Butterflyfish live right at the surface and can jump and glide, so a tight-fitting lid is a must. Give them floating plants and calm water.
Feeding: Feed floating foods like flake, floating pellets or freeze-dried insects. They also enjoy small live insects like crickets.
Tankmates: They will eat small fish at the surface. Keep them with calm, mid-size fish that stay lower in the tank.
Good to know: African butterflyfish have large, wing-like fins and can glide short distances out of the water.
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