Black Ghost Knife Fish 6cm

Black Ghost Knife Fish

For the experienced aquarists chasing a true oddball fish, the black ghost knife is a must-have species. Ghost Knives have long been a mascot for oddball fish species and are usually captive-bred in large ponds for the aquarium trade. These fish are a must-have for larger aquariums and will be a really great consideration for a biotope-style system.

The most popular and intriguing factor of the ghost knife fish is its slender, blade-like body shape. These fish are a solid jet black in colour with a white stripe across their head and 2 rings near the tail. They also have no dorsal fin and just have a single extensive ventral fin which flutters and controls how the fish move. One of the coolest aspects of these fish is how they can swim backwards perfectly which is a skill that is almost exclusive to knife fish.

Trying to find the males and females in this species is very difficult as there are no immediate distinguishing factors between males and females. Captive bred fish are generally bred in large ponds however there have been some successful captive breeding ventures with varying methods.

Tank Recommendations for your Black Ghost Knife Fish
Because the ghost knife fish can reach lengths upwards of 30 cm they do require a fairly sizeable aquarium. An aquarium with a volume of at least 450 litres with an ideal aquarium size being 120 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm to ensure they have the swimming space required. As these fish can be quite shy it best to give them a lot of tunnel-like structures and driftwood that they can hide in and amongst. They can be kept on a sand or gravel substrate with no issues and will also appreciate plants in the aquarium as well.

Suitable Tank Buddies
Ghost Knifes are big fish however they are quite shy and can be kept with a range of fish. They do not have aggressive personalities but the size of their tank mates does come into play when keeping Ghost Knifes. However overly aggressive tank mates may also outcompete them for food especially when smaller.

Usually Compatible
Brown ghost knife fish, elephant nose, Discus, Giant Danios, and other peaceful but larger growing fish.

Sometime Compatible
Geophagus, Oscar, Convict cichlid,s and medium-sized cichlids.

Rarely Compatible
Nano fish such as neon tetras or shrimp will become an immediate meal for the ghost knife when it is adult-sized.

Feeding your Black Ghost Knife Fish
Black ghost knife fish should take to aquarium foods quite fast however sometimes they can be quite finicky so it may be good to have some frozen foods on hand too. Feeding a carnivore diet-based pellet would be best as these fish do require a higher protein content. It is best to feed them at night or to dim the aquarium lights before feeding.