Leaf Fish

Looks how to spot one

scales

The body is flattened and shaped like a dead leaf, with a filament on the lower jaw that looks like a leaf stalk. It is grey-brown and can change colour slightly to blend in. There is no lateral line and the mouth is very large and can be pushed forward.16

Personality what they are like

A peaceful but predatory fish that lies in wait for prey. It is nervous and easily stressed, so it needs a calm, quiet tank with plenty of hiding places. It is best kept alone or with larger, robust catfish that are too big to be eaten.75

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low activity; it is an ambush predator that spends most of its time motionless, drifting like a leaf. The tank should have dim lighting and still water with little flow.57

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Requires pristine water quality and minimal disturbance. Frequent water changes are needed, but hands-on interaction inside the tank should be kept to a minimum to avoid stress. A good external filter with gentle flow is recommended.73

Home where they are happiest

Soft, acidic water with pH 5.0-6.5, hardness below 8 dH, and temperature 22-28°C (72-82°F). The tank should have plenty of large-leafed plants, driftwood, and floating plants to provide shade and hiding spots. Water flow should be very gentle, mimicking still or sluggish waters.875

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Strictly carnivorous; it will only eat live prey such as small fish (e.g. guppies, neons) and live ghost shrimp. It is extremely difficult to wean onto frozen or prepared foods. Each fish needs at least three adult guppies per day to avoid starvation.357

Company who they like around

Best kept alone or with larger, slow-moving catfish that are too big to be eaten. It will eat any fish small enough to fit in its mouth. It is not suitable for a community tank with small fish.75

The story where it all began

The Amazon leaffish has been known to science since 1840 and has long been traded in the aquarium hobby because of its extraordinary leaf mimicry. It is not a common species in the wild and is considered a low-density fish. Its specialised diet and shy nature make it a challenging pet for experienced keepers only.167