Fascinating doesn’t even begin to describe the black ghost knifefish, one of the most unique fish out there. And considering the thousands of different breeds and their traits, that’s saying a whole lot!

Characterized by its long, sleek body and lack of scales, the black ghost knifefish is perfectly camouflaged in the wild and is ready to protect itself when necessary. Word of caution: Because it is such a unique fish, it’s more ideal for experienced hobbyists.

Facts about the Black Ghost Knifefish

1. It has no scales. While that is not common, the black ghost knifefish is not alone in this trait. Other fish that don’t have scales include eels, catfish, sharks, rays, sturgeons, blennies, and lampreys.
2. Similar to an eel, it is an electric fish that uses an electric organ and receptors to find food.
3. It is a freshwater tropical fish.
4. Typically, the fish is all black except for two white rings on its tail and a white speck or stripe on its nose.
5. It can grow to almost 2 feet long, so it will need a large fish tank, preferably at least 150 gallons.
6. Watching it swim is quite a sight. It uses a fin under its body to move, making it look like a flag waving in the wind.
7. The temperature in a black ghost knifefish’s tank should be 73 to 80 degrees, and the pH level of the tank should be 6.5 to 7.0.
8. You can buy a small one for less than $20.
9. It’s on the shy side, so it likes to hide in gravel and within plants.
10. It prefers meaty foods like earthworms and shrimp.
11. An adult black ghost knifefish has a very large mouth. With that mouth, it can eat other fish whole.
12. Black ghost knifefish originate from the dark rivers of South America, and in the wild, they are nocturnal. Because they’re so hard to spot, they’re associated with urban legends. … What urban legends, you ask? Well, let’s just say Jaws has nothing on them.
13. It doesn’t really get along with other black ghost knifefish, and it could eat small fish of other breeds. Having other fish in the tank may also interfere with the signals it needs to survive. Additionally, some other types of fish might bully the shy knifefish. For all these reasons, it really should live alone.

Starting a Black Ghost Knifefish Aquarium

If you’re planning on obtaining one of these spectacular fish, you’ll need to take special care of the tank and watch what you place into it. Our professional aquarium installation and maintenance team can help you create the right home for this unique fish.

Contact us through our website or by phone at (602) 628-7270 for aquarium installation or more information about how to care for a black ghost knifefish.