Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded knifefish (Gymnotus carapo) is a freshwater fish of the family Gymnotidae that grows up to 76 cm.
Fresh water of Central and South America, in slow-moving, densely vegetated water of rivers, creeks and swamps.
Description
The banded knifefish is a knife-shaped freshwater fish of the family Gymnotidae (naked-back knifefishes) reaching about 76 cm. The elongate, laterally compressed body lacks a dorsal fin and has a very long anal fin with which the fish swims smoothly forward and backward in undulating movements; the brown body bears oblique, paler bands. Like the related electric eel it generates a weak electric field with an organ in the tail, with which it navigates in turbid water and detects prey. The species comes from Central and South America and lives in slow, densely vegetated water of rivers, creeks and swamps. At night it hunts insect larvae, crustaceans, worms and small fish. It is sometimes kept in the aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded knifefish?
The Banded knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Knife-shaped freshwater fish without a dorsal fin, with a very long anal fin and oblique brown bands; generates a weak electric field to navigate.
Where does the Banded knifefish live?
The Banded knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of Central and South America, in slow-moving, densely vegetated water of rivers, creeks and swamps.
How big does the Banded knifefish get?
The Banded knifefish grows to a maximum of about 76 cm.
Is the Banded knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded knifefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded knifefish edible?
The Banded knifefish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gymnotus
More from the family Gymnotidae
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