Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus)

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Climbing Perch

Anabas testudineus4538.jpg
Climbing Perch

Anabas testudineus

208 Litres (55 US G.)

16-25 cm (6.3-9.8")

sg

1 - 1.015

pH

6.0 - 8.5

22 -30 °C (71.6-86°F)

5-18 °d

1:2 M:F

Carnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

5-8 years

Family

Anabantidae



Additional names

Climbing Perch

Additional scientific names

Amphiprion testudineus


Origin

Sexing

There are no obvious differences between male and female.

Tank compatibility

Do not keep with small fish as the Climbing Perch is a predator. Can be kept with others of its own kind.

Diet

Will accept most foods including pellet and flake as well as live/frozen meaty foods such as bloodworm and daphnia.

Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.

Environment Specifics

Must have a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places in secure bogwood and rocks. A secure lid is a must with about 5.1-10.2cm (2-4") gap between the water surface and the top of the tank to avoid any mishaps if this fish jumps. This fish must have excellent filtration as it can be a messy eater, and hardy plants as it will nibble soft delicate plants.

Behaviour

An aggressive yet shy fish that is not suitable for a general community aquarium. They are also know to jump when going to the surface for air.

Identification

A slender fish with large scales and spines on the gill cover.It is grey-brown to silver in colour, with a dark spot on the base of the caudal fin. Some red can also be observed in the fins.

Species Notes

  • Be very careful when handling this fish as the spines on its gill cover can cause it to get caught in nets, they will also use these spines to defend themselves.
  • If this fish does escape, do not limit your search to the vicinity of the tank, this fish can "walk" and can be found a surprisingly long distance away! It uses this ability in the wild when pools start to dry up and it will move over land to find a new pool.

Pictures

External links