Climbing perch Care Guide

The Climbing Perch is an intriguing and challenging species known for its ability to survive in various aquatic environments. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to care for these fish, focusing on tank setup, feeding, and other essential care aspects.

Tank Setup and Habitat

The Climbing Perch thrives in a tank that accommodates its semi-aggressive and territorial nature. Ensure the tank size allows at least 10 liters of water per fish they can grow between 10 to 15 cm in length. The tank should have multiple habitat zones, including surface, mid-tank, and bottom dwelling areas, to cater to their diverse swimming patterns.

Maintain the water temperature between 23°C and 30°C, and the pH range should be kept between 5.5 and 8 to match their natural preferences. Given their aggressive behavior, larger groups should be avoided; however, a minimum school size of six can help manage their aggression under the right conditions.

Water Quality and Maintenance

Moderate maintenance is required to keep the tank in optimal condition for Climbing Perches. Regular water changes and filtration are essential to maintain water quality, as these fish are sensitive to poor conditions. Ensure adequate oxygenation and consider a tight-fitting lid, as these fish are known to climb or jump out of the tank.

Feeding Requirements

The Climbing Perch enjoys a varied diet. They will readily accept flakes, pellets, and color-enhancing food, which form the staple of their diet. To cater to their carnivorous tendencies, provide live and frozen options, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, daphnia, micro worms, and feeder fish. Adding vegetable matter and algae wafers will ensure a balanced diet. Ensure feeding is done moderately to prevent overfeeding and associated water quality issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

Climbing Perches exhibit semi-aggressive behavior and high territorial tendencies. Choosing tank mates carefully and considering their aggressive nature, especially during breeding, is imperative. They become highly aggressive when breeding, hence a separate breeding tank setup may be beneficial.

Additional Considerations

When keeping Climbing Perch, it's important to monitor their behavior closely. Being very rare and unpopular in the aquarium trade, they are a unique addition that requires dedicated care. The moderate difficulty of maintaining these fish ensures they are best suited for experienced aquarists.

Ensure that all conditions are maintained as per their needs to ensure a thriving environment. Understanding their behavior, dietary preferences, and tank compatibility will go a long way in ensuring a healthy and dynamic aquarium life for the Climbing Perch.