Knifefish-Black Ghost (50-80mm)

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.

Ghost Black Knifefish (Apteronotus albifrons "Ghost Black")

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Body: Elongated and laterally compressed with a ribbon-like shape. The body is mostly smooth with a long, flexible fin extending along the body.
  • Color: Dark, nearly black body with a ghostly pale or white underbelly. Some individuals may have subtle patterns or shades of gray.
  • Size: Can grow up to 16-20 inches (40-50 cm) in length in captivity.
  • Distinctive Feature: Notable for its eerie, ghostly appearance and undulating swimming motion. The fish's unique coloration and movements make it a striking addition to an aquarium.

• Behavior:

  • Activity: Mostly nocturnal, more active during the evening and night. Prefers to hide during the day and come out at night.
  • Social Structure: Generally solitary, though they can be kept with other peaceful species. Can become territorial, especially in smaller tanks.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum: 75 gallons (284 liters) for a single fish. Larger tanks are preferred to accommodate their size and swimming space.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C). They prefer warm water but can tolerate slight variations.
  • pH: 6.0-7.5. Slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
  • Filtration: Strong filtration is required. Ensure good water circulation to maintain clean and oxygenated water. The filter should be capable of handling the tank's volume and maintaining water quality.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is ideal. Smooth substrates help avoid injury.
  • Aquascaping: Provide plenty of hiding spots and shelter using rocks, driftwood, and plants. They appreciate a well-decorated tank that mimics their natural habitat. Keep in mind their nocturnal nature and provide places where they can hide during the day.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. They are more active during low-light conditions, so bright lights are not necessary.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Carnivorous; feed high-quality sinking pellets or live/frozen foods such as bloodworms, chopped shrimp, and small fish.
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like earthworms or small crustaceans to provide variety.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Peaceful with other large, non-aggressive fish. Avoid small tank mates that may be considered prey or become stressed by the knifefish's presence.
  • Social Behavior: Generally solitary and may not tolerate conspecifics well in confined spaces. Best kept alone or with other large, peaceful species.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are crucial to maintain water quality and remove waste.
  • Cleaning: Clean the tank regularly, including removing uneaten food and detritus. Ensure the filtration system is properly maintained.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or lesions.
  • Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if health issues arise. Common problems include skin infections and parasites. Early intervention is important for effective treatment.

By providing the appropriate environment and care, the Ghost Black Knifefish can thrive and add a unique and captivating presence to your aquarium.