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Leaf Fish

Scientific Name: Monocirrhus polyacanthus
Recommended Aquarium: 20+ Gallons
Approx. Adult Size: 4 inches
Temperament: Aggressive
Ease of Care: Difficult
Diet: Carnivore
Native Waters: South America

Because it does look exactly like a leaf! This fish, also known as a "paper fish”, originated in the Amazon (Peru) and the Rio Negro Basins and grows to be 4" (10 cm). You must be an advanced aquarist for this fish since it is a very aggressive, venomous, predatory species. In addition, your aquarium maintenance regimen should be strict, since frequent small water changes and high quality filtration are essential for this fish. They are not inter-species compatible nor community aquarium safe. They are even known to attack each other due to their predatory nature. The Leaf Fish is a Carnivore, live foods (small fish) and a Piscivorous (feeds on other fish). They eat large amounts of food in a day in order to maintain a normal body shape. In regards to sexing this species: The female is larger and deeper bodied and has smaller fins than the male.

Approximate arrival size for Leaf Fish: 1.5 to 3 inches