Fin's Fish Guide
The African butterflyfish (Pantodon buchholzi) is a freshwater fish of the family Pantodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated and standing water of swamps and creeks.
Description
The African butterflyfish is a small surface fish of the family Pantodontidae and the only species of its family; it reaches about 12 cm. The body has a flat back, an upturned mouth and extraordinarily large, wing-like pectoral fins that make it resemble a butterfly from above. It hangs motionless just below the surface and can glide short distances through the air with its pectoral fins to catch flying insects or escape predators. The species comes from West and Central Africa and lives in slow, densely vegetated and still water of swamps and creeks, where it can gulp air. As a surface hunter it eats insects and small invertebrates. It is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African butterflyfish?
The African butterflyfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small surface fish with enormous, wing-like pectoral fins and a flat back; can glide short distances out of the water to catch insects.
Where does the African butterflyfish live?
The African butterflyfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated and standing water of swamps and creeks.
How big does the African butterflyfish get?
The African butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the African butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the African butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African butterflyfish edible?
The African butterflyfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the African butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.