Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown ghost knifefish (Apteronotus leptorhynchus) is a freshwater fish of the family Apteronotidae that grows up to 27 cm.
South America: Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and others
Description
The brown ghost knifefish is a weakly electric ghost knifefish (Apteronotidae) from slow-flowing, shaded rivers of the Amazon and Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed, dark-brown body with a long anal fin with which it swims forward and backward in waves and a thin tail. With a weak electric field it navigates and hunts insect larvae and small invertebrates in the dark water at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown ghost knifefish?
The Brown ghost knifefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Brown ghost knifefish live?
The Brown ghost knifefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and others
How big does the Brown ghost knifefish get?
The Brown ghost knifefish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Brown ghost knifefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown ghost 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Apteronotus
More from the family Apteronotidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown ghost knifefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown ghost knifefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.