Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluntnose knifefish (Brachyhypopomus brevirostris) is a freshwater fish of the family Hypopomidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The bluntnose knifefish is a weakly electric knifefish (Hypopomidae) from northern South America. The species has an elongate body with a short, blunt snout and a long, continuous anal fin with which it swims undulating forwards and backwards; a dorsal fin is absent. It keeps among emergent and floating bank plants of rivers and swamps. With a weak electric organ in the tail it navigates in turbid water, detects prey and communicates with conspecifics at night. It feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluntnose knifefish?
The Bluntnose knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Weakly electric knifefish with a long anal fin and no dorsal fin; navigates electrically in turbid water.
Where does the Bluntnose knifefish live?
The Bluntnose knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northern South America; riparian plants of rivers and swamps.
How big does the Bluntnose knifefish get?
The Bluntnose knifefish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Bluntnose knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluntnose knifefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bluntnose knifefish edible?
The Bluntnose knifefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brachyhypopomus
More from the family Hypopomidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluntnose knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluntnose knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.