Grey Ghost Knife Fish 8cm

Grey Ghost Knife Fish

For the experienced aquarists chasing a true oddball fish, the grey ghost knife is a must-have species. Ghost Knives have long been a mascot for oddball fish species and are usually jet black; however, these grey ghosts are a great genetic variation of the classic fish. 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 aspect of the ghost knife fish is its slender, blade-like body shape. These fish, instead of being a solid jet black, are actually more of a ghostly grey. This grey colour is often splattered with darker grey and brown spots, resulting in a fish that looks almost like a different species. They still maintain their grey stripe across their head and 2 rings near the tail. Ghost knives also have no dorsal fin and just have a single extensive ventral fin, which flutters and controls how the fish moves. 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 Knife Fish Grey Ghost

Because the ghost knife fish can reach lengths upwards of 30cm, 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's 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.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Ghost Knifefish 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 knife fish. 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.

Sometimes Compatible

Geophagus, Oscar, Convict cichlids, 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 size.

Feeding your Grey Ghost Knife Fish

Grey 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 prior to feeding.