Ghost Knife Fish
Apteronotus albifrons
Care Level: Easy
Max Size: 50cm
Diet: Omnivore
Temperature: 23-28°C
PH: 6.0-7.5
Temperament: Peaceful
Purchase Size:5-6cm
The Ghost Knife Fish is one of the most curious looking oddball species in the hobby. This nocturnal predator has the ability to produce and detect a minor electrical current, which it uses to hunt, figure out its surroundings and even to communicate. It does grow to a very substantial size and isn't able to bend its body, so the aquarium must be large enough to accommodate this fish in both length and width. Filtration needs to be efficient and able to cope with the meaty diet of this fish. Regular partial water changes are recommended as Ghost Knives are extremely sensitive to high nitrates and fluctuations in parameters. The addition of plants and bog wood will offer hiding places and shady areas for the fish to enjoy and the lighting itself should be dim or diffused.
Though it is a predator, it is also quite a delicate and peaceful species that can happily exist in a community of larger fish. Ideal tank mates would include Angelfish, Rainbowfish, gouramies and some peaceful cichlids like Geophagus. Avoid smaller species that may be viewed as food or anything particularly aggressive. Shrimp and snails are likely to be eaten. They are very territorial with their own kind and should only really be housed as a single specimen. Additionally, due to the minor electrical current this fish is able to produce, it should not be housed with anything else that can do the same.
If you have any questions about keeping these fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.
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