PisciDex Species Profile
Black Ghost Knifefish
Large nocturnal weakly electric fish requiring dim cover, a tight lid, peaceful tankmates too large to swallow, and careful medication choices.
Apteronotus albifrons
Apteronotidae | South America | Amazon basin and northern South American river systems
Core Requirements
Tank Size
90 gallons minimum
Adult Size
20 inches
Group Size
Solo
Bioload
6/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
73-82 F
pH
6-7.5
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
No
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Care Warnings
- Large predatory nocturnal fish that needs a very large tank and peaceful robust tankmates.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Semi-Aggressive
Aggression
4/10
Diet
Carnivore
Difficulty
Advanced
Lifespan
10 years
Breeding
Advanced
Schooling
No
Compatibility Tags
Large TankSemi AggressiveSolitaryBottom DwellerMid WaterPlant SafeBlackwaterSoftwater
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.