Amazon Leaf Fish – The Ultimate Master of Disguise
(Monocirrhus polyacanthus)

The Amazon Leaf Fish (Monocirrhus polyacanthus) is one of nature’s most incredible examples of camouflage and predatory adaptation. Native to the slow-moving blackwater creeks and flooded forests of the Amazon Basin, this species mimics a dead leaf with uncanny accuracy—complete with a laterally flattened body, mottled brown coloration, and a drifting, motionless swimming style. A dream fish for oddball enthusiasts and biotope aquarists!

Key Features:

• Incredible Camouflage: Perfectly imitates a fallen leaf, down to its color, posture, and movement

• Ambush Predator: Uses stealth to surprise small prey with a lightning-fast strike

• Compact Size: Typically grows to 8–10 cm (3–4 inches)

• Truly Unique: Rare in the hobby and captivating to watch

Tank Requirements:

• Minimum tank size: 75 liters (20+ gallons)

• Temperature: 24°C–28°C (75°F–82°F)

• pH: 5.5–7.0 (soft, acidic blackwater preferred)

• Provide dim lighting, leaf litter, and dense vegetation for a natural environment

• Gentle filtration to mimic calm, slow-moving waters

Compatibility:

• Best kept alone or with peaceful, non-competitive species

• Not suitable with small fish—it will eat anything that fits in its mouth

• Thrives in a single-species tank or blackwater community with appropriate tankmates like pencilfish or hatchetfish

Feeding Tips:

• Strict carnivore—feeds primarily on live foods like small fish, shrimp, or insects

• May accept frozen foods with effort, but live prey triggers natural hunting behavior

• Feed every other day to avoid overfeeding and maintain hunting instincts

Why Choose the Amazon Leaf Fish?
With its leaf-like disguise and ambush predation tactics, the Amazon Leaf Fish is a living curiosity and a conversation piece in any tank. Best suited for advanced aquarists, it offers a deep dive into the subtle beauty and complexity of Amazonian life.