Apteronotus albifrons — Black Ghost Knifefish
Family: Apteronotidae
Origin: Freshwater rivers and streams of South America (Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Brazil)
Size: 50 cm (20 inches)
Lifespan: 10–15 years
 
Natural Habitat
Environment: Slow-moving, dimly lit rivers and floodplains with dense vegetation and submerged roots
Water Conditions: Soft, slightly acidic water with low to moderate flow
Temperature Range: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
 
Physical Description
Body Shape: Long, laterally compressed body shaped like a knife blade
Coloration: Deep black body with a white blaze on the nose and two white bands on the tail
Fins: Continuous undulating fin running from below the gill area to the tip of the tail
 
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons for juveniles; 125 gallons or larger for adults
Water Parameters:
pH: 6.0–7.5
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Water Flow: Gentle
Substrate: Soft sand or smooth gravel
Décor: Driftwood, caves, PVC pipes, dense plants; needs plenty of hiding places and dim lighting
Filtration: Powerful filtration with excellent water quality maintenance
 
Diet
Type: Carnivorous
Preferred Foods: Live or frozen foods (bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, small fish), high-quality carnivore pellets
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily
 
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Peaceful but territorial, especially toward its own kind
Nocturnal; most active during the night
Compatible Tank Mates:
Peaceful, medium-to-large fish (Angelfish, larger Tetras, peaceful Cichlids)
Avoid aggressive fish and very small fish that may be seen as prey
Behavior Notes:
Uses weak electric fields to navigate and hunt
Shy and reclusive when young
 
Breeding
Spawning Method: Egg layer (breeding in home aquariums is extremely rare)
Breeding Conditions:
Only successfully bred in large, specialized facilities
Fry Care:
Extremely difficult and not commonly attempted by hobbyists