Freshwater Butterfly Fish (Pantodon buchholzi)
Freshwater Butterfly Fish (Pantodon buchholzi) brings unusual wing-like finnage and surface ambush behaviour to a suitably prepared aquarium. Plan its home around adult space, water, diet and social needs rather than the current sale size.
Quick Facts
- Scientific name: Pantodon buchholzi
- Product type: surface-dwelling predator
- Sale unit: One individual per quantity ordered unless the listing states otherwise
- Social needs: Predatory surface fish; may eat small companions and can be territorial at the surface
Is this for you?
Perfect if: you can build a large aquarium with ample surface space, maintain stable water conditions, and provide a diet of small live or frozen foods. Suitable for experienced aquarists who understand predatory fish behaviour and can manage territorial tendencies.
FAQ
What kind of aquarium setup is recommended for this fish?
A large aquarium with sufficient surface area and stable water parameters is required. The fish prefers a well-aerated environment with strong surface currents and ample open space for movement.
Can this fish be kept with other fish?
Not recommended. This species is predatory and may attack smaller fish, especially those near the surface. It can be territorial and should be kept alone or with very large, non-swimming species that do not approach the surface.
What does this fish eat?
It feeds on small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. It is a surface feeder and will hunt near the top of the water column.
Colin Young –
This fish is visually striking with its wide, butterfly-like fins. I have a 120-gallon tank and it has adapted well to the surface environment. I feed it brine shrimp twice a week and monitor water parameters closely. It’s not for beginners, but once you understand its needs, it’s a unique addition to any aquarium.
Wanda Thomson –
The fish looks beautiful and moves gracefully at the surface. I expected it to be aggressive, but it’s actually more passive than I thought. Still, I keep it alone to avoid any conflicts with other species. Water quality is critical—must maintain stable temperature and pH.
Angela Howard –
It’s an eye-catching fish, but I found it to be quite active and surface-oriented. I didn’t expect it to be so territorial. I’ve had to remove a small shrimp species that was near the surface. Would recommend only for experienced aquarists with large tanks.