Black Ghost Knife Fish
Black Ghost Knife Fish (Apteronotus albifrons)
Description
The Black Ghost Knife Fish is a captivating and unique species known for its long, ribbon-like body and ghostly, fluid swimming movements. Native to the rivers of South America, it has earned its name due to its dark coloration and the way it glides through the water like a ghost. These fascinating fish are nocturnal, using electroreception to navigate and hunt in the dark, making them a wonderful addition to well-maintained aquariums.
Key Features
- Scientific Name: Apteronotus albifrons
- Common Name: Black Ghost Knife Fish
- Size: Up to 20 inches (50 cm)
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive to peaceful, depending on tankmates
- Lifespan: 10-15 years with proper care
- Diet: Carnivorous – enjoys high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish.
- Tank Level: Bottom dweller, prefers areas with plenty of hiding spots
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons for a single individual, larger if keeping more than one
- Water Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
- pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5
- Water Hardness: 2-12 dGH
- Substrate: Soft, fine gravel or sand to allow for easy movement and to mimic their natural riverbed environment.
- Tank Setup: Provide plenty of hiding spaces, such as caves, driftwood, and dense plants. These fish prefer dim lighting and quiet, stable water conditions.
Care Tips
- Black Ghost Knife Fish require a large, well-filtered tank due to their size and waste production.
- They are nocturnal and may not be as active during the day, but their unique swimming behavior is often most visible at night.
- Since they have sensitive electroreception abilities, avoid strong currents and aggressive fish that may stress them out.
- Ensure they are well-fed with a protein-rich diet to promote healthy growth and development.
Compatibility
Although semi-aggressive, the Black Ghost Knife Fish can be kept with other peaceful or large fish that won't harass it, such as:
- Larger catfish (e.g., Plecos)
- Peaceful cichlids
- Non-aggressive tetras
- Other large, peaceful species like Angelfish
Why Choose Black Ghost Knife Fish?
The Black Ghost Knife Fish is a truly unique aquarium inhabitant, offering both intrigue and beauty with its ethereal swimming patterns. If you're looking for a striking, low-maintenance fish that thrives in larger setups and enjoys a peaceful environment, this species is perfect for your tank.
Note that these oddball monster fish can grow up to 20" in size.
Current size is about 2" or so.
Nocturnal fish that grow to a size of 20” with a jet black body. Fun fish that are a great option for semi aggressive large tanks. These fish have an electric sensory that allows them to navigate in the dark. They are opportunistic and will eat anything that will fit into their mouths. Feeding on crustaceans and insects in nature they will accept frozen foods and quality dried foods.
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Black Ghost Knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons) For Sale!
Some of our beautiful black ghost knife fish! Only $11.99. Tak...
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Black Ghost Knifefish For Sale
New batch of Black Ghost Knife Fish in stock this week! One of...
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Black Ghost Knifefish For Sale
The super cool Black Ghost Knife Fish! Find this oddball fish...
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Ghost knife fish
Fast delivery, only thing was my 2 ghostknifes died within 24 hours. My tank was already established.. my clownknife has survived this far. Will buy again.
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Black Ghost Knife
Had no difficulty with ordering or receiving the item , even though it was during the quarantine
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Happy and healthy
Came well packaged and happy in its new home
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Beautiful fish!
The Black Ghost Knife was even more impressive in person. Very active and lively. Beautiful fish! I love PetZoneSD.
