This is a laterally compressed species with a mottled appearance. It may show a central body spot and banding in the caudal fin. Young Mottled Ctenopomas have a different pattern than the adults, exhibiting two dark brown stripes behind the eyes, and their pelvic fins are black at first.
This is a plainly colored species with a distinct black spot on the caudal peduncle and often a yellowish tinge on the anal and pectoral fins. The tail spot is usually ringed in gold in juvenile specimens. Several morphs are known to exist in the wild.
Although one of the smaller members of the genus at barely 3 inches (8cm) in length, the Orange Bushfish is probably the most beautiful of all the Ctenopoma species, ranging in color from orange to bluish- green. Some variation in body coloring and patterning occurs in wild-caught specimens.
The Leopard Ctenopoma, along with some other members of its genus, is now encountered with greater regularity than in the past, thanks to the efforts of specialist anabantoid societies in several countries. The species belongs to the “larger” Ctenopoma—a group of species that exceed 6 inches (15cm) in length. A nonspotted and a violet morph are occasionally available. Sandelia sp., a close relation of both Anabos and Ctenopoma, is hardly ever seen in the hobby.
This tough, durable species was first imported into Europe in 1891, making it one of the oldest tropical fish in the hobby. It has been reported as being able to “walk” on land and even to climb trees. The former behavior is known to be within the species’ capabilities, e.g., during wet weather and perhaps in moving from one pond to another, but its climbing powers’ are somewhat exaggerated. A yellow (xanthistic) form has been reported, but is rarely seen, as is a second species, the High-bodied Climbing Perch (A oligolepis), from India and Bangladesh.
The anabantids are a large group of fishes found in the tropical waters of Africa and Asia. They are best known for their ability to breathe atmospheric air. The organ that they use for this is known as the labyrinth (hence the common name labyrinth fishes) and is situated on either side of the head in the gill cavity directly above the gills. The fish takes in air from above the water surface and passes it into two chambers, each of which has a rosette-like structure which looks not unlike a sponge. This has a very good supply of blood vessels close to the surface of the structure, and therefore the fish is able to absorb oxygen from the air.