South American Leaf Fish (Monocirrhus polyacanthus) or Barbeled Leaf Fish is a highly specialized predator that preys on small fish. It is a slow moving predator and will use stalking techniques to catch its prey. It camouflages itself with its leaf-like body, floating like a dead leaf on the current. Then when it is near an unsuspecting small fish, it will pounce and snap up the small fish. Gulping it down head first with its large mouth!
South American Leaf Fish is not for everyone. If you decide to keep South American Leaf Fish you need to be prepared to feed it live fish. It has a hearty appetite and will need to be fed small fish such as feeder guppies daily. You can’t be squeamish about feeding live fish. You also have to be committed that you will undertake the task of feeding your Leaf Fish daily.
If you do decided to keep South American Leaf Fish, you can house it in a 20 gallon tank. It is a hardy fish and should be in a single species tank.
Characteristics
| Name | South American Leaf Fish |
| Scientific Name | Monocirrhus polyacanthus |
| Origin | Peru |
| Size | 4 inches (10 cm) |
| Minimum Tank Size | 20 Gallon |
| Temperament | Predatory |
| Ease of Care | Difficult |
| Diet | Carnivores |
| Breeding | Egg Layer |
| Water Parameters | Soft. Acidic, pH 6.0-6.5 |
| Water Temperature | 72-77F (22-25C) |
| Water Column | Midwater Fish |
What are Other Names for South American Leaf Fish
South American Leaf Fish are also called Barbeled Leaf Fish.
How Big Do South American Leaf Fish Get?
South American Leaf Fish can grow to 4 inches (10 cm).
What to Feed South American Leaf Fish?
South American Leaf Fish are carnivores. South American Leaf Fish has a big appetite. It needs to be fed live fish daily. Feed it feeder guppy.
How to Set Up an Aquarium for South American Leaf Fish?
Set up a heavily planted tank with driftwoods and lots of shelter. South American Leaf Fish needs lots of places to hide in. The tank should be a well-filtered tank with little turbulence. Use a hang-on filter.
What are the Best Water Parameters for South American Leaf Fish?
South American Leaf Fish likes soft, acidic water with pH 6.0-6.5.
What is the Ideal Water Temperature for South American Leaf Fish?
South American Leaf Fish should be kept in a tank with a water temperature of 72-77F (22-25C).
How to Breed South American Leaf Fish?
South American Leaf Fish are not typically bred in aquariums at home. They are egg layers. Females will lay eggs on leaves or rocks. Females can lay up to 300 eggs. The male will guard the eggs and the eggs will hatch in 4 days.
Are South American Leaf Fish Peaceful or Aggressive Fish?
South American Leaf Fish are predators and will feed on small fish.
How Many South American Leaf Fish in a Tank?
Keep only one South American Leaf Fish in a species-only 20 gallon tank.
What Fish are Compatible with South American Leaf Fish?
Due to its predatory nature, South American Leaf Fish are not compatible with other community fish.