Ctenopoma Weeksii

Datasheet

Behaviour

The Mottled Bushfish is not inherently aggressive but displays predatory behavior, often preying on smaller fish. It is best housed with tankmates from the same region, such as Congo Tetras, Yellowtail Congo Tetras, Barbus species, and certain catfish like Synodontis flavitaeniatus. Maintaining them in a group within a sufficiently large tank is possible if all the fish are introduced simultaneously to avoid territorial conflicts that may arise if added at different times.

Feeding and Diet

Although the Mottled Bushfish is a natural predator, it can easily be acclimated to dead food alternatives. A varied diet that includes frozen foods like prawn, bloodworms, and mussels, supplemented with occasional live treats such as earthworms or mealworms, is suitable. While dried foods are generally not favored, some individuals may learn to accept them over time.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding patterns suggest that Ctenopoma Weeksii, including the Mottled Bushfish, are seasonal spawners, with pairs spawning regularly for a few months and then pausing. Sexual differentiation is challenging, with males sporting more gill cover spines and a rough-textured area at the base of the caudal peduncle absent in females. Breeding efforts in captivity are rare, but increasing the chances of successful pairing can be achieved by allowing a group of young fish to naturally pair off. The breeding tank should be spacious with ample floating plants for egg deposition.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Mottled Bushfish prefer sluggish or still waters that are often oxygen-deprived, such as pools, lakes, lagoons, and swamps with dense vegetation providing protection. They are primarily found in the River Congo drainage within the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Aquarium Setup

To cater to the Mottled Bushfish's preference for dim lighting and ample hiding spots, it is advisable to provide weak lighting or diffuse it with floating plants in the aquarium. Creating hiding places and cover through decor is essential, with a dark substrate and African plant species like Anubias and Bolbitis attached to driftwood being ideal. Preventing any gaps around the tank cover is crucial as these fish have been known to jump occasionally.