Monocirrhus polyacanthus
| Common Names: | Amazon Leaf Fish Leaf Fish |
| Synonyms: |
| Family: | Polycentridae |
| Category: | OthersFW |
| Distribution: | America - South; Slow moving regions of the Amazon River around Peru, South America. |
| Main Ecosystem: | River; River |
| Temperament: | Predatory; The Amazon Leaf Fish is a predator, but it is not aggressive. It can be kept with other peaceful fish that are not too active, and are large enough not to be considered food. This species has a large, extendable mouth, and any fish that is about 5cm long or smaller is at risk of being eaten. Ideal tankmates include Trichogaster Gouramis, medium-sized peaceful Cichlids, other Leaf Fish, and Climbing Perches. |
| Diet: | Carnivore; Feed mainly with live fish such as guppies and minnows. Goldfish are not recommended because their large scales may become lodged inside the Leaf Fishes' stomach. Young Leaf Fish may also accept live invertebrates such as Tubifex worms, Bloodworms, Brine Shrimp, and Ghost Shrimp. |
| Care: | A tank of at least 10 gallons is needed for the Amazon Leaf Fish. The tank should be heavily planted with large leaved plants, as well as floating plants to dim the tank lights. Soft, acidic, tannin-stained water is best for the long term health of this species (this can be achieved by adding driftwood to the tank and/or peat to the filter). |
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| Potential Size: | Male: 8cm (3.1") Female: 8cm (3.1") |
| Water Region: | Middle; Middle |
| Activity: | Diurnal; Diurnal |
| Gender: | Unable to be determined. |
| Breeding: | Difficult. Use a higher temperature of 27°C and soft water. Large smooth flat rocks should be added for the Leaf Fish to spawn on. Remove the female after spawning. |
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| Comments: | The Leaf Fish will often hover in a vertical position. It is a rather intelligent fish; it will learn to recognize its owner, and come to the front of the tank when he or she approaches. It can be taught to take food from its owner's fingers. |
| Main Colours: | Brown |
| Markings: | Mottled |
| Mouth: | Normal |
| Tail: | Flat |
| Search: | Show similar species Find compatible species |
| Image Credit: | © FishProfiles.com |
| Submitted By: | Adam |
| Contributors: | Natalie |
| History: | View changes to this profile |
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