Black Ghost Knife Fish

Black Ghost Knife Fish (Apteronotus albifrons) is a striking and unusual species known for its smooth, ribbon like body and gliding movement. Its ghostly black colour and nocturnal behaviour make it a captivating fish, but our black ghost knife fish for sale grow large, reaching 40cm or more as adults, so they need a spacious aquarium.

Location

Found in South America, especially the Amazon River Basin, Black Ghost Knife Fish live in murky, slow flowing waters with plenty of shelter. In aquariums, they appreciate a similar setup with shaded areas and hiding places.

Diet

This species thrives on a carnivorous diet consisting of frozen or live food like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex. Sinking pellets can also be offered to supplement their nutritional needs.

Care

Black Ghost Knife Fish prefer stable water temperatures between 24 and 28°C and clean, well oxygenated tanks. A peaceful tank environment with low lighting helps reduce stress, especially for young or newly introduced specimens. Keep only one per tank, as they are territorial with their own kind, and choose tank mates too large to be eaten, as adults will eat small fish and shrimp. They are sensitive to poor water quality and medications containing copper.

Habitat

They feel secure in aquariums with driftwood, caves, or PVC tubes where they can hide during the day. Soft substrate and minimal water movement help replicate their natural environment.

Breeding

Breeding Black Ghost Knife Fish in captivity is challenging and uncommon. It typically requires expert knowledge, large tanks, and highly specific water conditions to succeed.

See also our synodontis catfish and blue eye lemon bristlenose pleco, which make good tank mates, or browse all our exotic fish.

Shipping Information

We take care to ensure your order arrives in excellent condition and ready to settle into your aquarium. All orders are shipped with tracking, and the cut-off time for same-day dispatch is 4 pm.

Orders containing dry goods, shrimp, snails or plants are dispatched Monday to Friday via Royal Mail for fast, reliable delivery. Livestock, in particular live fish and invertebrates, are dispatched Monday to Wednesday only, using an approved overnight courier, to avoid weekend delays and ensure safe and timely delivery.

Track Your Order

You will receive a tracking number by email when we begin processing your order for shipping. The selected courier will provide updates on delivery only through their tracking page.

During colder weather, heat packs are added when needed. Livestock orders are carefully packed in insulated boxes to help maintain a stable temperature throughout transit.

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