African Knife

Scientific Name: Xenomystus nigri
Recommended Aquarium: 50+ Gallons
Approx. Adult Size: 12 inches
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Ease of Care: Moderate
Diet: Carnivore
Native Waters: Upper Nile River

When a juvenile, it may form schools, but most adults live singly in their hiding places. They will not tolerate other knifefish but are generally peaceful with fish they do not consider food. The African Knife has an elongated body with one long anal fin used for propulsion. The dorsal fin is absent. The body color is a steel gray and the knife exhibits two small feelers along its upper lip. The African Knife can emit sounds by ejecting air from its swim bladder, perhaps used to startle predators. Growing to a possible 12 inches, most aquarium specimens will be 4 to 6 inches in length. Treat as a smooth skin fish when treating for parasite infestations.

Approximate arrival size for African Knifefish: 3 to 4 inches