Fin's Fish Guide
The Bare knifefish (Porotergus gymnotus) is a freshwater fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 85 cm.
Description
The bare knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish from fresh water of the Amazon basin of South America. The species grows to about 85 cm and has a strongly elongate, rearward-tapering body with a very long, continuous anal fin with which it swims forward and backward in undulating fashion, and a reduced back. With a weak electric organ it generates an electric field to navigate in turbid, nocturnal water. It hunts insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bare knifefish?
The Bare knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Long anal fin and a weak electric organ; nocturnal navigation
Where does the Bare knifefish live?
The Bare knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon basin
How big does the Bare knifefish get?
The Bare knifefish grows to a maximum of about 85 cm.
Is the Bare knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bare knifefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bare knifefish edible?
The Bare knifefish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Bare knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bare knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.